Mobile Computing | News

Google Sets Up Donor Program To Provide Schools with Discounted Chromebooks

• By Leila Meyer
• 12/10/12

Google has announced a limited time program with online charity DonorsChoose.org to match donors with public classrooms in need of Chromebooks.

Until Dec. 21, 2012, teachers can post requests on DonorsChoose.org, and anybody can donate money to purchase Chromebooks for the classroom. Once a classroom reaches its funding goal, Lakeshore Learning will send the Chromebooks to the school.

Although Google offers several models of Chromebook, this program applies to the Samsung Series 5 Chromebook only. According to Google, it's the most widely deployed Chromebook in schools. The list price for the devices on Google's Web site is $429 for the WiFi model or $479 for the 3G model. For this program, Google is offering the devices for $99 each, including hardware, management, and support.

Key features of the Samsung Series 5 Chromebook include:

• Chrome operating system, including built-in Google apps;
• Automatic updating;
• Web-based management console;
• 12.1-inch HD-capable screen;
• Up to 8.5 hours of continuous usage;
• Intel Atom N570 dual-core 1.66 GHz CPU;
• 2 GB RAM;
• 16 GB solid state hard disk drive;
• Optional dual-band WiFi and 3G modem;
• Built-in Webcam;
• 2 USB 2.0 ports;
• 4-in-1 memory card slot;
• Micro-VGA port with VGA adaptor; and
• Full-sized chiclet keyboard and oversized trackpad.

According to Google, Chromebooks are "fast, easily sharable, and require almost no maintenance," and they make it easy for teachers to make the most of technology in the classroom, from conducting real-time research to collaborating on group projects. More than 1,000 schools have already deployed Chromebooks in the classroom.

Full-time public school teachers in the United States can visit DonorsChoose.org and follow the online instructions to post a request before Dec. 21. A list of Chromebooks for Classrooms requests already submitted is also available on the DonorsChoose.org site.