What is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a laptop of a different breed. Instead of Windows 11 or macOS, Chromebooks run Google’s Chrome OS. These machines are designed to be used primarily while connected to the Internet, with most applications and documents living in the cloud.
Outside Features on a Chromebook
Each Chromebook model is slightly different, but most of the models being used in Granite include one or more USB-C ports, one or more USB 2.0 ports, an SD card port, and an audio jack for headphones or earbuds. Some of the older models also include an HDMI port and a round power jack rather than USB-C ports.
USB-C ports can transmit both power and data. You can charge a Chromebook by connecting the power adapter to either of the USB-C ports. Additionally, you can connect a Chromebook to your projector by using a USB-C to VGA adapter. However, most things you would demo on a Chromebook can be shown by using the Chrome browser on your desktop computer.
USB devices like jump drives and other external hard drives can be connected to upload content to your Google Drive. You can also connect a wired or wireless mouse to your Chromebook via the USB port.
In order to log in to a Chromebook you will need to be connected to the Internet. If you are logging in to a Chromebook while in the district it will automatically be connected to GSD WiFi. If you are logging in to a Granite Chromebook from home, you will need to log in to your home wireless network. The Chromebook will prompt you to connect before you can log in.
To log in to a district Chromebook, you will need to enter your Granite Google credentials. All Granite School District students and employees have a district-provided Google account referred to as your account.
Student Google Usernames
Granite student Google account usernames are the student’s number followed by @graniteschools.org.
Staff Google Usernames
Staff Google Account Usernames are the same as staff member’s Active Directory username.
Signing In
- When you turn on a Granite Chromebook you will encounter a message saying, “Sign in to your chromebook managed by granitesd.org” – click the blue NEXT button.
2. On the mountain screen, enter your Google username and your password.
- Students in Grade 4 and up begin with a default password but will be prompted to create a unique password the first time they log in.
- Students in Grades K-3 have a default password which will not need to be changed.
- Students should check with their teacher or school to obtain the default password for their accounts, or if they have already changed but forgotten their password.
- Staff should consult with their Technology Coach or the district Help Desk if they are having password issues.
- This is the user’s district Active Directory password, the same password used when you log into a district computer or other district tool.
3. You may be asked to accept Google’s Terms and Conditions. Scroll down to accept and agree.
4. You may be given the choice of a thumbnail picture – choose one and click the OK button.
Chromebooks – Basics For Getting Started is an online training that will prepare you for using Chromebooks in the classroom. This training is intended to help you become familiar with the basic functionality of Chromebooks, learn how to login to them, and introduce you to Google Drive. To learn more about the other Google Apps, there are additional optional modules in the G Suite Module section of the Chromebooks and Google Apps in the Classroom training site.
Training course content created by Teresa Bruin, District Educational Technology Specialist.
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