by AGParts Education | Cybersecurity, Digital Citizenship, Education Technology, K-12 Education
October is Cybersecurity Awareness month. Cyberattacks have been more prevalent in schools, with 408 disclosed attacks in 2020. What can your school do to prevent falling victim to these attacks? What are the most common threats to cybersecurity in education? Today, we’ll answer both questions.
Why Cyberattacks are on the Rise in Schools
The increase of cyberattacks can be attributed to several factors. Schools are viewed as soft and easy targets. Administrators have incorrectly believed that schools have nothing of value or worthy of taking by cyber criminals. More importantly, many schools lack the resources to build a robust cybersecurity program. Often, there isn’t a full-time employee dedicated to cybersecurity. Beyond that, districts often lack employees that have the knowledge and expertise in cybersecurity.
The pandemic also uncovered cybersecurity vulnerabilities. As schools rushed to introduce new technologies for remote learning, it created security gaps. Many schools dealt with videobombing and phishing scams.
Types of Cybersecurity Threats
Here are the most common cybersecurity threats:
Data Breach
As the name implies, a data breach is a leak of sensitive information from a secure to unsecure environment. Whether data is copied or transmitted, it is then used in an unauthorized manner. Generally, the type of information breached is confidential, like student records.
Spoofing & Phishing
Spoofing is essentially a forged email. It can appear to come from a well-known and reputable organization. Upon closer inspection, its sender is someone else entirely.
Phishing is another email scam. The sender falsely poses as a legitimate organization in the attempt to obtain sensitive information (passwords, credit cards, bank information).
Spear phishing is a type of targeted phishing. These appear to be from someone you know with a reasonable request. Upon closer inspection of the email address, you can see that the sender is unknown.
Malware, Scareware & Ransomware
Malware is software that is intentionally designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a computer, server, or network. Systems can become infected when users download malware disguised as legitimate software online, through peer-to-peer sharing, or via email.
Scareware is a type of malware designed to trick users into buying unnecessary and potentially harmful software. Scareware is socially engineered to cause shock, anxiety, fear, or the perception of a threat.
Another type of malware, ransomware encrypts users’ files then demands the payment of a ransom for users to regain access to their data. Mainly delivered via spoofing or phishing scams, it can also include an element of extortion—releasing user data or images of the victim is threatened if the ransom is not paid.
Denial of Service
Denial of Service (DoS) attacks intentionally overload or disrupt servers to make a website, machine, or network unavailable. While DoS don’t typically result in data theft, they can cost the victim a significant amount of time and money.
Outdated Software
A more passive attack, outdated software creates vulnerabilities where unauthorized users can gain access to networks.
Removable Media
Perhaps not as prevalent today but still a risk in schools, removable media (USB drives, external hard drives, DVDs/CDs) can pose cybersecurity challenges. Easily stolen, these devices can be manipulated with malware. Corrupted devices can be intentionally or unknowingly connected computers. Then, device files can infect computers or networks.
Safeguarding Your School Against Threats
Key to cybersecurity in education is protecting your school against cyberattacks. Here’s what your school can do to actively prevent cyberattacks.
Define & Promote Policies
Creating and promoting computer and internet usage policies can help insulate your school from cyberthreats. These policies, like an Acceptable Use Agreement, define acceptable terms of use for computer systems. They should include any local, state, or federal regulations about information security and privacy
Equally important is creating an Incident Response Procedure in the event of a cyberattack. This will define how to respond to the attack, including operation and communication guidelines.
Update OS & Software Regularly
One of the easiest ways to prevent cyberattacks is by keeping operating systems and software up to date. Updates provide vital security patches and enhancements to both operating systems and software. Maintaining updates can be your first line of defense against malware attacks.
Store Data Securely
Data should be stored securely and in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This is particularly important with increased use of cloud systems. Data should be regularly backed up in the event of accidental or intentional corruption.
Educate Students & Faculty
Reaching young users is key in quelling the tide of cyberattacks. Do this by integrating a digital citizenship curriculum for students of all ages. Educating students on the nine elements of digital citizenship speaks to their role as a digital citizen and the responsible use of technology. Not only could this prevent future attacks from younger generations, but it can also alert young users to cyberthreats as well as how to correctly respond to such threats.
Educating staff and faculty about cybersecurity can prevent attacks that occur due to behavioral issues. Teaching the importance of strong passwords, multifactor authentication, and email etiquette can prevent these types of attacks. Training should be ongoing and sustainable.
AGParts Education has been in the classroom since the Chromebook revolution began, supporting Council Bluffs School District as one of Google’s first 1:1 pilot schools. Find out why 6,000+ US school districts, including Council Bluffs, trust us in Chromebook parts supply, tech buyback, and more. Contact us today to see how we can help your school district today.
by AGParts Education | Chromebooks, Education Technology, K-12 Education
Have you heard the buzz about Chromebooks? Whether you’ve heard they’re being used by 40 million educators worldwide, or the fact that Chromebooks posted their best year in 2020, there is no denying their popularity. Which may make you wonder: why do schools use Chromebooks?
Today, we’ll answer that question and unlock why these devices are so popular, particularly in education.
What is a Chromebook?
Before we answer that question, we’re going to answer another: what is a Chromebook? A Chromebook is a type of laptop that runs on Chrome OS. Most work on a Chromebook is done via the internet, so having a reliable internet connection is essential. This doesn’t mean your Chromebook turns into a brick offline, but internet connection is necessary to provide vital updates, as well as sync and host apps.
Why do Schools Use Chromebooks?
First introduced in 2011, Chromebooks have only grown in popularity in both education and retail sectors. Four times as many Chromebooks were sold in 2020 than in 2019. In large part, this can be attributed to the shift to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, Chromebook sales continue to soar. They continue to be a popular choice for schools, especially those with an existing 1:1 digital learning program. Here’s why:
Price Tag
Perhaps the simplest answer as to why schools use Chromebooks is their price tag. The cost of a Chromebook simply can’t be beat. With some models less than a $100, the average price for a Chromebook for education runs from $150-300. Not only that, but Chromebooks have a low lifetime cost, generally requiring little maintenance or repair.
Secure
Operating system updates and vital security patches come directly from Google. There is no need for antivirus software, virus protection is integrated with these updates. Generally, these updates run automatically and in the background without disrupting users. Knowing your K-12 devices are protected without having to lift a finger give tremendous peace of mind to schools.
One thing to note about these updates: Chromebooks only receive updates until their Auto Update Expiration date. This date signifies when Google will no longer support the model. On a new Chromebook, you can expect a lifespan of eight years. However, the clock starts when the device is manufactured, not when the device is purchased. If you purchased a 2020 Chromebook with an AUE of June 2028 today, you would have less than seven years to use the device safely.*
Low Maintenance & Easy to Deploy
With automatic updates provided by Google, there is very little to do in terms of maintenance. There is little to no software to maintain or update. Plus, Chromebooks are lean in hardware making them less susceptible to damage (not to mention lightweight!).
Equally easy is deployment. All that is needed is a Google account to get started.
Naturally though, as Chromebooks are used and transported, damage is bound to occur. Here’s the good news—they’re easy to repair and parts are generally affordable. Many tech departments opt to perform repairs in house.
Long Battery Life
With most models boasting a battery life of ten plus hours, Chromebooks can easily power students through an entire school day with charge to spare.
Easy to Use
Chromebooks offer a straightforward user experience. Using a Chromebook is as simple as opening your internet browser. No fancy frills or hoops to jump through, making completing assignments and participation a cinch.
When managing your K-12 Chromebooks, be sure to partner with a company you can trust to assist with all your 1:1 Chromebook needs. From Chromebook parts to buyback, AGParts Education supports 6,000+ school districts across the United States. Contact us today to see how we can help your school district today.
*Based on date of publication (September 2021).
by AGParts Education | Chromebooks, Education Technology, K-12 Education, Laptops
What is the best type of device for your district? Chromebooks are stripped down laptops with a straightforward user experience. Windows laptops and MacBooks are more complicated devices but have their own benefits. Today, we’ll discuss Chromebook vs laptop for students, and what the best option is for your district.
What is a Chromebook? What is a Laptop?
A Chromebook is a type of laptop that runs on Chrome OS. Most work on a Chromebook is done via the internet, so having a reliable internet connection is essential. This doesn’t mean your Chromebook turns into a brick offline, but internet connection is necessary to provide vital updates, as well as sync and host apps.
In the simplest terms, a laptop is a portable computer, created as the compact and portable version of desktop computer. Notebooks are a thinner version and lighter version of a laptop, and Ultrabooks are thinner and lighter than notebooks typically with loads of features. For the purposes of this article, a laptop refers to any non-Chromebook portable computer, specifically a Windows laptop or MacBook.
Chromebook vs Laptop Side by Side
Operating System
Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, an operating system designed by Google. Windows laptops run on Windows, an operating system designed by Microsoft. Finally, MacBooks run on macOS engineered by Apple.
Each operating system carries its own strengths and weakness, and much is subjective to the user. Chrome OS and macOS have the most straightforward interfaces, making them easier to use for students, while Windows is most complex. MacOS is most intuitive when it comes to multitasking and having multiple applications and windows open. Chrome OS is likely the least multitasking friendly. Ultimately, this all comes down to the students’ needs.
Software & Applications
This is one of the biggest differences when comparing a Chromebook vs laptop. Chromebooks have virtually no software. Most applications run in Google Chrome. Applications are downloaded from the Google Play Store, and no third-party software can be installed on a Chromebook. This makes them boot very quickly.
Both Windows laptops and MacBooks have software, sometimes pre-installed, or bundled, software. Additionally, users often install software packages like Office 365 or Adobe.
No software makes Chromebooks extremely easy to deploy and manage. Setup on a Chromebook is generally simpler than its counterparts. Updates are generally easier to manage, and there is no need for your technology department to install software on hundreds, or thousands, of devices.
Storage
When comparing devices, you may be shocked to see how little local storage a Chromebook needs, especially when compared to its Windows laptop and MacBook counterpart. Chromebooks can run on as little as 16GB of local storage. This is largely due to no software. Additionally, Chromebooks rely on Google Drive as their cloud-based storage system.
Although a Windows laptop and MacBook both have their own cloud-based storage, they still boast a large amount of local storage. It is not uncommon to find a laptop with 128GB to 256GB to as much as 1TB. There really is no upper limit in terms of storage
Again, this makes Chromebooks very attractive to schools. Less storage means less money per device.
Virus Protection & Security
Another big difference in Chromebooks vs laptops—virus protection. Google designed Chromebooks with security in mind. For Chromebooks, there is very little to attack, which makes them protected and secure devices. Google delivers updates and vital security patches automatically until the Chromebook’s AUE. These updates require little to no maintenance or oversight making the process easy peasy.
Windows laptops, and MacBooks, are much more complicated devices. MacBooks are generally considered secure devices as macOS has many protections in place against viruses and malware.
On the other hand, Windows laptops are most vulnerable to viruses and malware. They own the market share, making them a more attractive target to malware makers. And while Windows does come with Windows Defender, these laptops generally require a third-party antivirus software in addition. This translates to more maintenance and oversight when using Windows laptops.
In this case, save the headache—Chromebooks are the easiest and bring most peace of mind in knowing your students and devices are protected.
Maintenance
Expect Chromebooks to require the least amount of maintenance, largely due to no software and integrated virus protection with automatic updates from Google. Generally, Chromebooks are also easy to repair in house. This is another attraction—repair can be as simple as ordering a part and watching a tutorial. We have a complete library of 175+ Chromebook repair tutorials for a variety of models.
Expect a Windows laptop to require the most maintenance in managing software updates and any other issues that may arise.
Price
While Chromebooks and some Windows laptops come in at comparable price points, MacBooks are the most expensive device. Unless your district plans to buy a refurbished model, expect to pay an upwards of $1,000 per device.
Chromebooks and Windows laptops for education are affordable and you can generally find models between $200-$400.
Chromebook vs Laptop: The Winner?
Chromebooks make an extremely compelling case for any district. Low price, low maintenance, and easy to use, Chromebooks have everything a student would need for their work. Ultimately though, the winning device all comes down to the needs of your district and students.
When it comes to your 1:1 Chromebooks, AGParts Education has your back. From Chromebook parts to buyback, we support 6,000+ US school districts. Contact us today to see how we can help your school district today.
by AGParts Education | Acer, Announcements, Chromebooks, Education Technology, HP, Lenovo
The Chromebook has become the most popular device used for 1:1 computing programs worldwide. Both Acer, HP, and Lenovo announced exciting new Chromebook models for both students and teachers in early 2021.
Check out these new Chromebook models currently available or coming soon to retailers:
For Students
Acer Chromebook Spin 512
Photo Credit: Acer
Released: January 2021
Price Range: $450-550
Processor: Intel Celeron N4120 1.1 GHz or Intel Pentium Silver N5030 1.1 GHz
Battery: 11 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 32GB-64GB eMMC
Screen: 12.0”
Resolution: 1366 x 912
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 3.42 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C port, (2) USB-A 2.0 port
The Acer Chromebook Spin 512 is the first Acer Chromebook to come equipped with standard antimicrobial treatment on the glass display, keyboard, and touchpad. With an increased display size and 3:2 aspect ratio for more vertical viewing, it’s the perfect Chromebook to view documents, read, and power through assignments. Durable for students, its keyboard is protected against small spills and is MIL-STD 810H tested.
Updated: Acer Chromebook Spin 511 (R752T-C2YP)
Photo Credit: Acer
Released: April 2021
Price Range: $400
Processor: Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 2.78 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C port
New Model: R752T-C2YP
Recently updated and bearing a lower price tag than the previous 511 models, the Acer Chromebook Spin 511 is a versatile 2-in-1 that packs a powerful punch. Impact and pressure resistant with a shock absorbent rubber bumper, it will withstand the most aggressive handling from young hands. With four convertible modes—clamshell, tablet, display, and tent—students can work in a variety of ways.
Updated: Acer Chromebook 311
Photo Credit: Acer
Released: November 2020
Price Range: $150-300
Processor: Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: No
Touch: Available
Weight: 2.43 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C port, (2) USB-A 2.0 port
New Models: CB311-9H-C7C8, CB311-9H-C4XC, CB311-9HT-C7SE
The Acer Chromebook 311 features three new models in its series, with the CB311-9H-C4XC model available at $169*. Smaller than a sheet of A4 paper, this lightweight laptop is perfect for hybrid model instruction and on-the-go students. Easily one of the most affordable Chromebooks on the market, it offers many features while staying in budget.
HP Chromebook 11MK G9 EE & HP Chromebook 11 G9 EE
Photo Credit: HP
HP Chromebook 11MK G9 EE
Released: January 2021
Price Range: $200-300
Processor: MediaTek MT8183 2.0 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 32GB-64GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: No
Touch: Available
Weight: 2.95 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C port, (1) USB-A 2.0 port, (1) Headphone/microphone combo jack
HP Chromebook 11 G9 EE
Announced: January 2021 (not released)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: Intel Celeron Processor N4500 or N5100 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 32GB-64GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: No
Touch: Available
Weight: 2.95 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack
The HP Chromebook 11MK G9 EE and the HP Chromebook 11 G9 EE are near identical save the processors and additional USB-A port in the second model. Built for the wear and tear of student life, these Chromebooks meet MIL-STD 810H standards and can withstand drops from four feet. With long-lasting batteries that can charge to 90% within 90 minutes, your students’ productivity will seldom be interrupted.
HP Chromebook x360 11MK G3 EE
Photo Credit: HP
Released: January 2021
Price Range: $300-400
Processor: Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 3.19 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack
Your students will learn from every angle with the convertible HP Chromebook x360 11MK G3 EE. Designed to withstand the demands of student life, this Chromebook can survive a fall and is spill resistant. The superior performance from the Intel processor and long battery life is sure boost your students’ productivity.
HP Chromebook x360 11 G4 EE
Photo Credit: HP
Announced: January 2021 (not released)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: Intel Celeron Processor N4500 or N5100 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB-64GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Available
Weight: 3.19 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack
A ruggedized Chromebook with an ultrawide HD camera, the HP Chromebook x360 11 G4 EE will keep up with even the most active students. Featuring a spill-resistant keyboard, this Chromebook also features a garaged stylus that can be stored and charged within the device. Available in either black or teal, it comes equipped with a battery that lasts all day and charges up to 90% in 90 minutes when powered off.
For Teachers & Higher Education
Acer Chromebook Spin 513
Photo Credit: Acer
Announced: February 2021 (not released)
Price Range: $500-550
Processor: Qualcomm Kryo 468 Octa-Core 2.1 GHz
Battery: 13.5 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 64GB
Screen: 13.3”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 2.65 lb
There’s a lot for teachers to like about the Acer Chromebook Spin 513. Stylish in design, it features a narrow bezel and stunning display. With a battery to power through even the longest days, teachers can easily switch between clamshell and tablet modes to easily meet their needs.
Updated: Acer Chromebook 314
Photo Credit: Acer
Announced: February 2021
Price Range: $200-450
Processor: Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB
Screen: 14”
Resolution: 1366 x 768, 1920 x 1080
Convertible: No
Touch: Not available in the updated models
Weight: 3.75 lb
Ports: 2) USB-C port, (2) USB-A 2.0 port
New Models: CB314-1H-C02A, CB314-1H-C7W8
The updated Acer Chromebook 314 is budget friendly laptop with no frills. With a larger 14” display, it is focused on productivity and performance. A bit heavier than most Chromebooks, your teachers can power through their days on a single charge. With model CB314-1H-C7W8 available for $199*, it’s going to be tough to find another comparable Chromebook at this price point.
Acer Chromebook 512
Photo Credit: Acer
Announced: February 2021
Price Range: $200-300
Processor: Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB
Screen: 12”
Resolution: 1366 x 912
Convertible: No
Touch: No
Weight: 3.09 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C port, (2) USB-A 2.0 port
Meeting MIL-STD 810G requirements, the Acer Chromebook 512 is designed to withstand the rigors of the harshest school environments. Like its Spin counterpart, this Chromebook features a 3:2 aspect ratio for more vertical viewing making it ideal for viewing documents and reading. Its keyboard is protected against small spills with a unique drainage design. At a price that can’t be beat, it’s a great fit for students and teachers alike.
HP Chromebook 14 G7
Photo Credit: HP
Announced: January 2021 (not released)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: Intel Celeron Processor N4500 or N5100 1.1 GHz
Battery: 12 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 32GB-64GB eMMC
Screen: 14.0”
Resolution: 1366 x 768, 1920 x 1080
Convertible: No
Touch: Available
Weight: 3.4 lb
Ports: (1) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack
Designed for teachers, the HP Chromebook 14 G7 features a larger screen and ultra-wide HD webcam to adapt to any learning environment. Built to survive drops, is also made to be cleaned, withstanding up to 1,000 disinfection cycles. While it is not a fully convertible Chromebook, it does feature a 180-degree hinge.
Added May 2021
Updated: Lenovo 100e Chromebook Gen 3
Photo Credit: Lenovo
Announced: March 2021 (coming soon)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: AMD 3015Ce 1.2 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: No
Touch: No
Weight: 2.76 lb
Ports: (1) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) HDMI port, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack
The Lenovo 100e Gen 3 is everything your students need without any frills. Reinforced ports and hinges combined with rubber bumpers ensure this device can handle drops from more than two feet. Equipped with plenty of ports for peripherals, your students won’t miss a beat with this Chromebook.
Updated: Lenovo 300e Chromebook Gen 3 2-in-1
Photo Credit: Lenovo
Announced: March 2021 (temporarily unavailable)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: AMD 3015Ce 1.2 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 32GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 2.9 lb
Ports: (1) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) HDMI port, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack
Rugged and water resistant, the Lenovo 300e Gen 3 2-in-1 features plenty of ports and all-day battery life to ensure productivity is uninterrupted. With optional garaged stylus, this 2-in-1 has a 360-degree hinge that enables multiple modes. Meeting MIL-SPEC-810H requirements, you can rest easy knowing this device can withstand the demands of student life, whether at a school desk or at a kitchen table.
Updated: Lenovo 500e Chromebook Gen 3 2-in-1
Photo Credit: Lenovo
Announced: March 2021 (temporarily unavailable)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: Intel Celeron Processor N5100 or 1.2
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 8GB
Storage: 64GB eMMC
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Convertible: Yes
Touch: Yes
Weight: 2.9 lb
Ports: (1) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) HDMI port, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack
Let creativity flow with the Lenovo 500e Gen 3 2-in-1. With optional garaged stylus and all-day battery life, students will be engaged and thrive while using this device. Featuring four convertible modes, this Chromebook is ideal for sharing content and collaboration. Meeting MIL-SPEC-810H requirements, it has rubber bumpers, reinforced ports and hinges, and a water-resistant keyboard that tolerates spills up to 12 oz.
Lenovo 14e Gen 2 Chromebook
Photo Credit: Lenovo
Announced: March 2021 (temporarily unavailable)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: AMD 3015Ce 1.2 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: Up to 8GB
Storage: Up to 64GB eMMC
Screen: 14”
Resolution: 1366 x 768, 1920 x 1080
Convertible: No
Touch: Available
Weight: 3.2 lb
Ports: (1) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) HDMI port, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack
The Lenovo 14e Gen 2 Chromebook is a student workhorse. Meeting MIL-SPEC-810H requirements, this Chromebook can keep up with the fast-paced lifestyle of any student or teacher without crumbling. With a battery that lasts all day and a 180-hinge, you can be sure that productivity will not be interrupted.
*Pricing may vary. Pricing current as of date of publication.
AGParts Education is your complete partner for your 1:1 Chromebook initiative. Supporting over 6,000+ U.S. school districts, find out how we can help your district. Contact us today!
by AGParts Education | Digital Citizenship, Education Technology
More than 175,000 children go online for the first time every day and 1 out of 3 internet users are children. As part of internet safety for students, understanding the 9 elements of digital citizenship has never been more important.
Digital Citizenship & Digital Citizens Defined
Everyone who uses the internet and technology is a digital citizen. Through the use of the internet and technology, digital citizens engage in all aspects of society from politics to ecommerce to connection via social media.
Digital citizenship is engaging responsibly with technology, the internet, and its users. Every digital citizen should endeavor to follow the 9 elements of digital citizenship which lays guidelines for appropriate use.
Why is Digital Citizenship Important?
Only 7% of Americans never go online, with 25% of that small percentage being 65+. Couple this with the fact that 97% of Americans own a cell phone (of those, 85% own a smartphone) and practicing the 9 elements of digital citizenship has never been more important. It’s crucial we all do our part to make the internet the safest and most equitable place possible.
In 2019, 41% of American students had their own device through their school’s 1:1 computing program. While that may seem like a modest percentage, that doesn’t address the schools where one device is available to five or fewer students. Nor does it address the increased demand for 1:1 programs or student devices following 2020.
Children are using technology at home, too. Although most believe that children should have their first smartphone later, the average age for a child to have their first smartphone is 10 years old. By age 8, 42% of US children have their own tablet. As technology and internet use continues to permeate our lives and younger generations, students must learn about digital citizenship at early age to ensure their responsible use of the internet and technology.
9 Elements of Digital Citizenship
There are 9 elements of digital citizenship that every digital citizen should be familiar with. They are:
1. Digital Access is the equitable distribution of technology and not only understanding who has access to technology, but the limitations and consequences to those who have limited access to technology.
2. Digital Commerce is the buying and selling of goods. This principle focuses on making safe and informed decisions when purchasing or downloading materials online.
3. Digital Communication is understanding the different modes and mediums of digital technology and when to appropriately use them. For example, understanding when sending an email is appropriate versus sending a text message.
4. Digital Etiquette is understanding appropriate code of conduct and procedures when using mobile devices. It extends beyond recognizing bad behavior in that it actively encourages appropriate and responsible behavior online.
5. Digital Literary or Fluency is the process of understanding technology, how to use it in its many forms, and how to adapt when new technologies are introduced. It also extends to internet usage and how to effectively search and evaluate information online.
6. Digital Health & Welfare is maintaining sound technological practices to promote physical and psychological wellness. Practicing eye safety and ergonomics, and balancing screen time and technology usage are all related to this important principle.
7. Digital Law is understanding and complying with online rules and policies, and how to use technology ethically. Digital law is broad and covers topics from spam to cyberbullying.
8. Digital Rights & Responsibility are the freedoms that extend to everyone online. Examples of this include right to privacy and free speech.
9. Digital Security & Privacy are electronic precautions to bolster online safety. Secure passwords, not sharing passwords, backing up data, and antivirus protection are all examples of this principle.
Digital Citizenship Resources
As we’ve established, introducing digital citizenship early is key. Equally important is teaching digital citizenship all year, every year. As students age, their online activities will change. What they learn in second grade is not what they will learn in ninth grade, which is why it’s important to teach this subject yearly.
There are many tools available to teach digital citizenship. Check out these helpful resources:
- Common Sense Media offers free courses for all school-aged children
- ITSE U offers a comprehensive digital citizenship course to equip teachers, coaches, and other leaders
- Edutopia shares a complete guide of helpful blogs and videos about digital citizenship
- Cyberwise offers free cyber civics resources for families
AGParts Education supports 6,000+ innovative 1:1 school districts in Chromebook parts supply and technology buyback. Contact us today to see how we can help your school.
by AGParts Education | Chromebooks, Education Technology
Is your school considering implementing a 1:1 Chromebook program? If so, you may be curious about Chromebooks and how they stack up to their competition. Today, we’ll look at that and more, including the benefits of Chromebooks in the classroom.
History of 1:1 Computing
Before we explore the benefits that Chromebooks can bring to your school, let’s look back at the history of 1:1 computing.
One-to-one computing is exactly what it sounds like—it is one computer for every student. Technology was first introduced in education in the 1920s when radio made lessons available to students within listening range. Since then, it’s been milestone after milestone as technology continues to be widespread across all schooling levels.
In the late 1990s, 1:1 programs were first introduced. In those early years, primary schools favored Apple devices while secondary schools favored Windows devices. Type of device is contingent upon many factors: age of students, budget, and benefits.
It’s estimated that 40% of US schools have a 1:1 program, with another 30% of schools having at least one device for five or less students. Despite the popularity of 1:1 programs, one statistic remains particularly troublesome: teachers report that 12% of students don’t have access to the internet or computer at home. In a world where technology dominates, 1:1 programs are a lifeline for these learners to prepare them for the future.
History of 1:1 Chromebook Programs
One-to-one programs saw two major tech inventions that rocked them to their core: the release of the iPad in 2010 and the release of the Chromebook in 2011.
There’s no denying the Chromebook’s universal popularity by schools and consumers alike. A streamlined, internet-heavy laptop with a price tag that can’t be beat, 30 million students and educators used Chromebooks in 2019 alone. After 2020, their popularity has only grown. The Chromebook was first introduced in the classroom in 2012 as Google began to pilot the device in schools nationwide. By 2014, Chromebook surpassed iPads in sales.
Benefits of Using Devices in the Classroom
With a reported 95% of teachers using technology in the classroom, it’s no secret that its presence is here to stay. When speaking about the benefits a specific device, it’s important to differentiate between benefits only that device can bring versus the overall benefits of using devices in the classroom, and largely the benefits of technology in education. Here’s a closer look at five of those benefits:
Provides Access
With 12% of students across the country with no access to the internet or a computer at home, devices in the classroom provide access to students that would otherwise not have it.
Transforms Ordinary Lessons
Using video or an interactive activity can make a boring subject more palatable to students and engage disinterested learners.
Assists with Student Comprehension
Technology-based learning incorporates different learning styles, which allow for students to tackle difficult subject according to their needs.
Prepares Students for the Future
College and career readiness is paramount for a student, and use of technology in the classroom will no doubt better prepare them for any digital demands the future brings.
Collaboration & Connection
Students are not only able to collaborate with their fellow classmates, removing the singularity of learning, but also with students on the other side of the globe. More importantly, technology-based education gives a voice to the voiceless—from shy students to students with learning disabilities, devices enable these students to connect in ways that aren’t possible previously.
Benefits of Chromebooks in the Classroom
Chromebooks continue to be a popular choice given their low-price tag and ease of use. How do they compare to the competition, and why choose a Chromebook over another device? Here’s a look at six benefits that Chromebooks bring to the classroom.
Easy to Use
How about a computer that boots in under ten seconds? With a Chromebook, you’re hard pressed to find a device that is easier to use. From long battery life to integrated virus protection, the only interruption students and teachers experience will be the bell ringing with these devices.
Ideal for Sharing
If your school doesn’t have the budget for one device to every student, Chromebooks are a great shareable device. Chromebooks require a Google account for every user and are cloud-based devices. When sharing, all students need to do is sign into their account for a personal learning experience.
Low Price Tag and Low Cost of Ownership
With some school-friendly Chromebooks starting at $99, there’s no denying their value. Since Chromebooks are very lean laptops (few components and parts), they are generally have very low cost of ownership.
Low Maintenance
As just mentioned, Chromebooks have few moving parts—few components—which means they are easier to maintain than other devices. Beyond hardware, Google delivers all auto updates until the model reaches its AUE. With built-in virus and malware protection, you have peace of mind knowing your computer is protected.
Long Battery
A huge draw for Chromebooks is that they don’t draw battery life quickly. Some models can last 13 hours (almost two school days!) on a single charge.
Offline Capabilities
Don’t be fooled—yes, Chromebooks are internet-heavy laptops, but students can still use a Chromebook offline. In fact, there’s many ways to use a Chromebook offline.
AGParts Education partners with 6,000+ innovative 1:1 school districts nationwide in Chromebook parts procurement and buyback. For more info, contact us today!
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