FAQs

1. What’s the difference between a Chromebook and a laptop?

2. Is internet access required to use a Chromebook?

3. What if I experience issues? (e.g. not connecting to internet, batteries not charging, etc).

4. Can we print from Chromebooks?

5. How do I install programs on Chromebooks?

6. Can Chromebooks be used for online testing?

 

1. What’s the difference between a Chromebook and a laptop?
   
   A Chromebook is a laptop, but with a different operating system. Chromebooks use the Chrome OS whereas other laptops use Mac or Windows. Chrome OS is a web-centric operating system that depends on the Google Suite and other cloud applications to function. Chromebooks cannot run all of the same applications that a Windows laptop can. For example, Chromebooks cannot run PowerSchool or Oracle.
   
   
2. Is internet access required to use a Chromebook?
   
   Yes, the majority of work that students do on a Chromebook requires internet access. There are a few exceptions. For example, students can type documents with Google Docs in offline mode and it will sync when their device connects to the internet.
   
   
3. What do I do if we experience issues? (e.g. not connecting to internet, batteries not charging, etc)
   
   Any user can restart the Chromebook as a first-line of troubleshooting. After that, the Tech Contact or WCPSS IST can assist you further by wiping and re-enrolling the Chromebook and/or reporting to the Help Desk for repair. Procedures are posted on the Chromebook Support Site: https://cbsupport.wcpss.net/support/
   
   
4. Can we print from Chromebooks?
   
   Chromebooks are NOT configured for printing. If printing is required, use a Windows laptop or desktop to access the file(s) in the user’s Google Drive, OneDrive or email.
   
   
5. How do I install programs on Chromebooks?
   
   Chromebooks are not capable of running installed software as you have experienced with Windows-based computers. Chromebooks are used mostly to access internet-based programs through the Chrome browser. However, you can install Chrome Extensions and Chrome Apps from the Chrome Webstore. Staff can install any Extensions and Apps, while students can only install pre-approved Extensions and Apps.
   
   
6. Can Chromebooks be used for online testing?
   
   
   • NCTest, College Board, ACCESS, and SchoolNet are some approved assessment tools that have been evaluated and approved by Technology Services for use on Chromebooks.
   • Per DPI, a Chromebook must be managed in order to be compliant with their testing requirements.
   • The NCTest app has been pushed to all WCPSS managed Chromebooks.
   • View instructions for using the NCTest app on Chromebooks. Unlike laptops, you do not need any generic logins.
   • Contact the WCPSS Testing Office with any questions regarding online testing. There is additional information posted on their Testing Office Intranet site.