Google has now introduced the Chromebook repair program for schools in an effort to create “a sustainable fix” for schools as they struggle with devices that can be hard to repair and do not always fit into their budget.
As the pandemic pushed many districts to integrate remote learning in 2020, over thirty million Chromebooks were shipped to schools nationwide, giving the tech giant its best year ever.
Google statistics report 50 million students and teachers currently use Chromebooks. With remote learning once again becoming a necessary tool for many schools, access to sustainable technology is relevant to a district’s bottom line.
Google says its Chromebook consumes 46% less energy, with interchangeable components that are reusable and safely disposable. The company said that converting a school’s devices to the Chrome OS would reduce greenhouse gasses by 90%, helping schools reduce their carbon footprint.
As for the repair program, Google claims to offer easily repairable products and provide repair information through its partners, Acer and Lenovo. In addition, online manufacturer guides will walk IT departments through repairing the devices, finding tools to safely fix them, getting replacement parts, and accessing system updates if needed.
Instructions will also be available for implementing an on-site school repair program that would teach students how to repair the Chromebooks, offering the option for students to add skills to their repertoire. The schools that have already implemented a repair program for students, mainly as an elective, have seen a faster turnaround time for repairs while also teaching students valuable skills they may use in their careers.
Compared to laptops, Chromebooks are priced around $200 and provide essential functions for students such as the ability to create documents, browse the web, and stream educational content.
The program also comes at an opportune time, as lawmakers fight to pass “Right to Repair” legislation in several states.