Why Chromebooks Are Bad For Education? (Pros & Cons)

The capability of a laptop is largely determined by its capacity to store data; limitations in its usage are encountered due to low storage capacity.

You will not be able to optimize your laptop to full capacity should there be processing difficulties and slow input and output, which increase the chances of programming errors. Sometimes, due to the slow running of the system, processing becomes inefficient, requiring more time to execute basic functions. 

Consider the application of the laptop computer for learning. The user faces various challenges and even more problems in loading information or transferring files and documents. The height of frustration!

Why Chromebooks Are Bad For Education?

In some cases, Chromebooks are not considered suitable for education due to limitations like Low Storage, offline limitations, short lifespans, lack of repairability, printing difficulties, and inability to multi-task are a few drawbacks of Chromebooks.

Pros And Cons Of Chromebooks In Education

Pros And Cons Of Chromebooks In Education

Pros Of Chromebooks In Education

  • Affordable: Chromebooks are inexpensive and have a low maintenance cost. Chromebooks are less expensive than other laptops, like an iPad or a MAC. They can be up to 50% cheaper for schools to obtain than standard laptops.
  • Lightweight and Compact: Chromebooks are craftily designed to appear compact and portable. Also, due to their low power supply units and limited internal systems, the device is thus thin and may not be easily noticed when placed and carried in backpacks and suitcases. 
  • Long-lasting Battery Life: This feature of Chromebooks is the most beneficial. When fully charged, the Chromebook can last for up to 9 hours. Chromebooks have durable batteries because of the limited load on the central unit. You are battery-covered using a fully powered Chromebook rather than a regular laptop.
  • Google Support and Security: Here’s an added advantage of Chromebooks. This feature keeps your Chromebook up to date. OS and App updates are executed automatically whenever you connect to the Internet.
  • Google Apps for Education: The Chromebook utilizes Google Apps for Education, a free suite of online apps that comprise word processors, documents, and presentations. The app also allows teachers to create and share lessons, assignments, and term papers with students and their parents. 

Cons Of Chromebooks In Education

  • Limited Storage Capacity: Chromebooks have minimal storage compared to Windows, with an internal storage capacity of just 32GB. Thus, anything else besides text documents and images is considered too much information.  
  • Offline Limitations: Chromebook usage is grossly limited since Chrome OS is mainly cloud and Web-based. As a result, many of its applications may not be functional when used offline without an Internet connection.
  • Printing Difficulties: Chromebooks utilize Google Cloud print technology to get your document printed with a printer. Thus, you are restricted from directly sending your document to a connected printer; your files will be sent to a cloud-ready printer via the Internet. Unlike regular laptops, there is no way to connect a Chromebook to a printer besides a cloud connection.
Acer Chromebook

Benefits Of Chromebook 

As much as the Chromebook seems to possess one or two drawbacks, that doesn’t entirely limit its functionality or instead reduces its value. Below are some of the fringe benefits of Chromebook;

  • Compatible and Lightweight, Chromebooks pose little or no difficulty moving around.
  • Ease of Usage: With Chromebook, you’ll find no problems understanding the setup and its operation. 
  • Updates Automatically: This benefit is a result of the Chromebook operating system. You don’t have to worry about checking for software updates and installation; the Chromebook does that for you. 
  • Durable Battery: With 7-9 hours of battery life, you’ll spend much more time with the Chromebook. 
  • Inexpensiveness: Chromebooks generally are affordable and cost less than traditional Windows and MacBooks. It is easy to buy and maintain. 
  • Efficiency, productivity, speed, and accuracy are often emphasized in the classroom, and there is also the time factor when students are assigned several tasks. Chromebook features of quick boot and battery life are handy when classwork is given. 

Why Are School Chromebooks So Slow?

Chromebooks running slow can be caused by insufficient storage space, which is the #1 reason for low-performance output by Chromebooks. Another reason for this can be due to too many open tabs which are running at the same time. 

Is A Chromebook Useless Without Internet?

No, Chromebooks are not useless without the internet. Initially, when the Chrome OS first came into the limelight, it was all but useless without the internet. 

More recently, Chromebooks are no longer functionless without internet access; they operate offline with web apps able to function with or without the internet.

Are Chromebooks Slower Than Laptops?

No, Chromebooks are not slower than laptops, and the Chromebook operating system runs faster than Windows and MacBooks.

FAQ

Why Do School Chromebooks Block Everything?

To restrict access to certain features and content usage. Many schools do this to protect students from harmful content.

What Are The Negatives About Chromebooks?

No doubt Chromebooks are inexpensive and compatible, but that’s just it. They cannot process “Heavy-duty” programs that may be essential for their users, and with limited storage, they wouldn’t serve you to the fullest.

Are Chromebooks Good For Education?

Yes, Chromebooks are excellent for education, and they are easily affordable and operational, with classroom compatibility. 

Do You Need A High-spec Model Of Chromebook?

Chromebooks are generally suitable for use, even if it’s the low-spec models, although you may opt for the high-spec model depending on your requirements and price. 

Why Do Schools Recommend Chromebooks?

The Chrome OS is a lightweight system that’s easy to operate and coupled with the longest-lasting battery life and affordability.  

What Chromebook Do Most Schools Use?

Most schools use the Acer Chromebook, and it is inexpensive and multifunctional. 

What Percent Of Schools Use Chromebooks?

85% of schools are using Chromebooks, with over 30 million students using a Chromebook at school presently. 

Why Are Chromebooks So Cheap?

Chromebooks are low-priced because of the low hardware requirements of Chrome OS and limited capacities. 

Can You Use A Chromebook Without the Internet?

Yes, although it isn’t convenient. Your Chromebook functionality will be limited as some apps require internet access to work. 

Can Chromebooks Get Viruses?

No, Chromebooks are immune to virus attacks and are well known for their advanced security features. 

What Type Of Security Do Chromebooks Use?

Chromebooks run their operations and commands in a restricted “Sandbox.” This restriction secures the Chromebook from malware attacks.

Can I Use Microsoft Office On a Chromebook?

You can use Microsoft Office on a Chromebook, but it’s a limited version (Microsoft Office Online). 

Conclusion 

Chromebooks are efficient and pocket-friendly devices for students to use in their academic work, from assignments to classwork, research, and projects. The battery life also ticks the box for product quality, and although the storage capacity isn’t that encouraging, Chromebook is sure to get the job done or, in this case, the school work done.

In summary, Chromebooks are a superior technology with pros and cons.

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