In the ever-evolving landscape of educational technology, finding the perfect match can be a game-changer. Enter Chrome OS and Google Workspace for Education (GWS). 

It’s like they were made for each other, and together, they create an educational cohesion that’s hard to beat.

Let’s take a look at Chromebooks, Chrome OS and GWS, and how this tech trio is transforming the learning experience.

Chrome OS Unveiled

Chrome OS, the lightweight, fast and user-friendly operating system by Google, has been turning heads in the education sector. 

It is a lightweight operating system (OS) based on ChromiumOS, and because it uses around a fourth of the disc space as Windows 11 it is able to boot up in seconds. 

When ChromeOS was first released, the only software application it could run locally was the Chrome browser. However, users now have many more options for running Linux Apps and Android apps from the Google Play Store. Being primarily cloud-based, you have access to all of Google’s services, including Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive and Photos, as well as Microsoft’s cloud-based apps (Microsoft 365). ChromeOS users also have the opportunity to leverage the extensive array of extensions accessible on Chrome, which operate in collaboration with the browser to enhance its functionalities.

The primary security objective of Chrome OS is safeguarding user data and preventing device compromise, all while allowing users the freedom to use their devices according to their preferences. Every feature in Chrome OS is crafted to reduce security risks, eliminating the necessity for users to have an in-depth understanding of the security implications when using their devices. The operating system intuitively adopts secure defaults for a seamless and protected user experience.

Additionally, ChromeOS automatically upgrades security patches in the background, with minimal disruption. The auto-update feature allows Google to send secure updates to a ChromeOS device at regular intervals. ChromeOS built-in security protects your device from phishing, ransomware and malicious apps with sandboxing, verified boot, updates and more.

Designed with simplicity in mind, Chrome OS powers a range of devices, but it truly shines on Chromebooks. These sleek laptops offer more than meets the eye, providing students and educators with a seamless and secure computing experience. You can run ChromeOS Flex on most computers (Mac or PC) with Intel or AMD processors. Most older computers from 2010 onwards should run ChromeOS, but Google only guarantees ChromeOS Flex functionality on certified models.

The Rise of Chromebooks

Chromebooks are not your average laptops; they’re a gateway to a new era of learning. With their affordability, portability, and quick startup times, Chromebooks are making waves in classrooms around the globe. 

They’re more than just devices; they’re a key player in fostering a collaborative and interactive learning environment.

• There are Chromebooks that fold-flat and have detachable screens to move around class with you.
• Using the built-in Screencast software, you can easily record and transcribe lessons for your pupils.
• There have been no recorded ransomware attacks on any Chromebook, which keeps your school community safe online.

GWS – Empowering Education

Google Workspace (GWS) for Education is the Swiss Army knife of educational tools. From collaborative document editing to video conferencing, GWS transforms the traditional classroom into a digital hub of creativity and innovation. 

With integrated applications like Google Docs, Slides and Classroom, GWS provides educators and students with a suite of powerful resources that streamline workflows and enhance communication. 

A few features of Google Workspace for Education: 

• With Duet AI, you can get help drafting lesson plans in Docs, creating images in Slides, building project plans in Sheets and more.
• Google Classroom is like a digital organiser. It isn’t a Learning Management System (LMS) just yet but rather a platform that ties together Google’s Workspace tools for teachers and students. A digital collaboration space.
• Google Classroom also includes a “originality reports” feature, which is effectively a plagiarism-checking tool that compares a student’s Google Doc to publicly available webpages and books. If the option is enabled, students can run reports prior to submitting assignments, and teachers can run them afterwards.
• Screen reader users can now extract text from PDFs using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) on ChromeOS. OCR is the conversion of typed, handwritten or printed text from images into machine-encoded text.
• Reading mode on Chrome browser is also getting new features, like the ability to highlight and read text aloud, along with natural-sounding text-to-speech voices that can help improve student comprehension. 
• Google Meet provides closed captions in 30 additional languages, and hosts can pin multiple video tiles for all participants in the meeting. This feature is particularly beneficial, especially when conducting presentations with a sign language interpreter.

The Symbiosis

Now, let’s talk about synergy. Chrome OS and GWS complement each other like peanut butter and jelly. The speed and simplicity of Chrome OS aligns seamlessly with the collaborative power of GWS, creating an ecosystem that empowers educators and inspires students. Imagine a world where managing assignments, collaborating on projects, and accessing resources is as easy as a few clicks. That’s the reality this trio brings to the table.

Take Home Message

Chrome OS and Google Workspace for Education are the perfect partners. Chromebooks open the door to a world of possibilities, and GWS equips educators with the tools to navigate and explore that world. As we embrace the future of education, this dynamic trio continues to redefine the learning experience, making it accessible, engaging and, above all, future-ready.

Radical Cloud Solutions is a proud Google Premier Partner. Drop us an email and our team will be delighted to provide you with comprehensive insights into the innovative solutions that Google for Education brings to the table.