Chromebooks should be utilized for unique value in classroom environments

By Tommy Kelleher
Contributing Writer

Distracting apps, compromised website layouts and fragile screens are just a few of the problems that could be avoided if Mira Costa uses Chromebooks in conjunction with iPads. On Dec. 10, the Manhattan Beach Unified School District Board of Trustees approved the purchase of 500 Chromebooks for Common Core testing. The district should go further and utilize Chromebooks for use within classrooms in Mira Costa and Manhattan Beach Middle School as well.

According to Assistant Superintendent Dawnalyn MurakawaLeopard, Chromebooks are more efficient for students than iPads because in the district’s trial run for Common Core testing last year, iPads had difficulties with syncing devices and inputting information. At the meeting, the board addressed these problems by using money from the general fund to purchase 500 Chromebooks, which were effective for testing in n e i g h b o r i n g districts, including Redondo Beach and Palos Verdes.

Although iPads have a larger collection of apps than Chromebooks, the iPad’s apps are not fully utilized by teachers at Costa. For large writing projects and presentations, students need traditional applications like word processors and slide presentation software rather than mobile apps. Google Drive, which includes programs like those of Microsoft Office, is a suitable interface for typing and can be used as an efficient tool for collaboration among students. Applications on Google Drive correspond more directly to students’ needs than applications on iPads.

Chromebooks are built to support Google Drive, as they have keyboards and access to the desktop versions of Google Drive. iPads, however, run the applications through mobile apps and must be operated through a touchscreen keyboard, which slows down the process for students.

Plenty of Costa students have smartphones, and Chromebooks are a more logical complement to these devices than iPads. Students need to be able to write more material and create projects, not access additional apps and diversions. In general, laptops supplement iPhones and iPads well, while iPhones and iPads perform similar functions and, thus, do not complement each other.

Chromebooks have two to four gigabytes of internet storage space, whereas iPad 2’s only have 512 megabytes. This additional storage makes the Internet run more smoothly for students and creates fewer problems.

Proponents of iPads believe that their interactive technology is helpful for students to learn. Though the touchscreen, which makes the iPad interactive, may provide some advantages, students need keyboards and word processors when they are tasked with traditional school work. The iPad may be an effective tool for elementary learners, but for high schoolers, the demands of higher education require different tools.

When the board has the funds to update the district’s technology program, it should purchase more Chromebooks, not just for testing, but also for their advantages in teaching and learning.