Student Technology Resources
- Chromebooks
- GSuite Apps
- Canvas
- Google Classroom
- Digital Citizenship
- Chrome at Home
- Policies and Guidelines
- TSC Outdoor WiFi Options
Chromebooks
- Login to a Chromebook: First Time Instructions
- Getting Started with a Chromebook
- Standards for Proper Care
- Rental Fee (Grades 6-12)
- Damages, Liability, and Repair Fees (All Grades)
- Damage Insurance Options (Chromebooks & iPads)
Login to a Chromebook: First Time Instructions
Getting Started with a Chromebook
- What's the difference between Chromebooks and other computers, like Windows or Mac OS?
- Do Chromebooks work offline?
- What is the Chrome Web Store?
- Install and organize apps and extensions
- Customize your desktop
- Use your Chromebook keyboard
- Chromebook keyboard shortcuts
- Use your Chromebook touchpad
- Change background and wallpaper
- Updating your Chromebook
What's the difference between Chromebooks and other computers, like Windows or Mac OS?
Chromebooks are a different type of computer designed to help you get things done faster and easier. They run Chrome OS, an operating system that has cloud storage, the best of Google built-in, and multiple layers of security.
Do Chromebooks work offline?
Yes. You can use offline-ready apps to keep using a Chromebook when it’s not connected to the Internet. Below are some examples:
- Read and write emails with Offline Gmail
- Write a note or make a list with Google Keep
- Create and edit documents, slides, or spreadsheets with Google Drive apps (Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides)
- View and RSVP to events with Google Calendar
- View and edit photos saved with the built-in photo editor
- Enjoy music or movies with the built-in media player
What is the Chrome Web Store?
It’s where you can find and add a wide range of free and paid apps, extensions, and themes designed for Chromebooks.
Visit the Chrome Web Store.
Install and organize apps and extensions
Available apps and extensions at TSC
Here is the listing of available applications and extensions for TSC students. Teachers can submit a request for an application or extension not currently available. Once the form is submitted, the requested application or extension will be reviewed to determine if its educationally relevant and suitable for TSC students.
Add apps and extensions
You can add apps and extensions to give your Chromebook more features and functionality. To add an app or extension:
- Open the Chrome Web Store
- In the left column, click Apps or Extensions. TSC students can only install apps and extensions identified in the "TSC Recommended Apps" area
- Browse or search for what you'd like to add.
- When you find an app or extension you'd like to add, click Add to Chrome.
- If you're adding an extension:
- Review the types of data that the extension will be able to access
- Click Install
You'll see your apps in your launcher, and your extensions in your browser window as buttons on the toolbar.
How apps and extensions work
Apps and extensions work like regular programs for desktop computers, but they run entirely in the Chrome browser. You don't need to install software or restart your computer.
Manage apps and extensions
- Sync your apps and extensions so you'll see them anywhere you sign in to Chrome.
- Pin apps to your shelf for easy access.
- Manage your extensions by clicking More and going to More tools > Extensions.
- Learn how to uninstall an app or extension.
Find an app you've previously installed
To search for an app on your Chromebook:
- On your keyboard, press the Search key .
- Type the name of the app you want. The app will show in your search results.
Open an app
- Sign in to your Chromebook.
- Click the Launcher .
- You'll see a list of apps you've used recently. Click the app you'd like to open.
- [Optional] To see all your apps, click All Apps.
Organize your apps
Put apps in folders
- Put apps together in a folder: Drag an app on top of another app.
- Name a folder: Click the folder.
Move apps around
Click and hold an app, then drag it.
Customize your desktop
At the bottom or side of your screen, you'll see a row of apps, called the shelf, and your account picture. You can change which apps are included and bookmark webpages.
Next to your account picture, you can see notifications, check your Chromebook’s battery life, raise or lower the volume, or change other settings.
Add, move, or remove apps
You can add an app that you use often to your desktop.
Add an app
- Click the Launcher All Apps.
- Find the app you want to add.
- Right-click the app icon.
- Click Pin to Shelf.
When you pin an app to your shelf, the app will stay there until you move or remove it.
Change the order of the apps
To change the position of an app:
- Click and hold the app you want to move.
- Drag it to a new position.
- Release to put the app in a new spot.
Remove an app
- Right-click the app you want to remove.
- Click Unpin.
Pin a webpage to your desktop
If you go to the same webpage often, you might want to pin it to your desktop.
- Open the webpage in Chrome.
- Click More More tools.
- Click Add to shelf Add.
Move or hide the row of apps
You can change the position of the row of apps, also called the shelf:
- Right-click the shelf.
- Point to Shelf position.
- Choose where you’d like the shelf to go: on the bottom of the screen (default), or on the left or right side.
To hide the shelf and status area, right-click the shelf and select Autohide shelf. When they're hidden, move the pointer to that side of the screen to see your apps, bookmarks, and account picture.
To stop hiding the shelf, right-click the shelf and uncheck Autohide shelf.
Use your Chromebook keyboard
Your Chromebook keyboard works just like a regular keyboard, with a few differences.
Unique keys on your Chromebook keyboard
Search your apps and the web To turn Caps Lock on or off, press Alt + Search. | |
Go to the previous page in your browser history (F1) | |
Go to the next page in your browser history (F2) | |
Reload your current page (F3) | |
Hide the tabs and launcher in full-screen Immersive mode (F4) | |
Show all windows in Overview mode (F5) | |
Dim the screen (F6) | |
Make the screen brighter (F7) | |
Mute (F8) | |
Lower the volume (F9) | |
Raise the volume (F10) |
Note: If you're using a Windows keyboard with your Chromebook:
- The F keys work like the keys above, sometimes with a few differences
- The Windows key between Ctrl and Alt works as the Search key
Chromebook keyboard shortcuts
You can use keyboard shortcuts to complete some tasks more quickly.
Tip: To find shortcuts on this page, press Ctrl + f and enter what you're looking for.
Popular shortcuts
- Take a screenshot: Press Ctrl + (or Ctrl + F5)
- Take a partial screenshot: Press Ctrl + Shift + (or Ctrl + Shift + F5), then click and drag
- Turn Caps Lock on or off: Press Alt + Search
- Lock your screen: Press Search + L
- Sign out of your Google Account: Press Ctrl + Shift + q (twice)
- See all keyboard shortcuts: Press Ctrl + Alt + ?
All other shortcuts
Note: If you’re using a Windows or Mac keyboard, use the Windows key or Command key in place of the Search key.
Tabs and windows
Open a new window | Ctrl + n |
Open a new window in incognito mode | Ctrl + Shift + n |
Open a new tab | Ctrl + t |
Open a file in the browser | Ctrl + o |
Close the current tab | Ctrl + w |
Close the current window | Ctrl + Shift + w |
Reopen the last tab or window you closed | Ctrl + Shift + t |
Go to tabs 1-8 in the window | Ctrl + 1 through Ctrl + 8 |
Go to the last tab in the window | Ctrl + 9 |
Go to the next tab in the window | Ctrl + Tab |
Go to the previous tab in the window | Ctrl + Shift + Tab |
Switch quickly between windows | Press & hold Alt, tap Tab until you get to the window you want to open, then release. |
Open the window you used least recently | Press & hold Alt + Shift, tap Tab until you get to the window you want to open, then release. |
Go to previous page in your browsing history | Alt + left arrow |
Go to the next page in your browsing history | Alt + right arrow |
Open the link in a new tab in the background | Press Ctrl and click a link |
Open the link in a new tab and switch to the new tab | Press Ctrl + Shift and click a link |
Open the link in a new window | Press Shift and click a link |
Open the link in the tab | Drag the link to the tab's address bar |
Open the link in a new tab | Drag the link to a blank area on the tab strip |
Open the webpage in a new tab | Type a web address (URL) in the address bar, then press Alt + Enter |
Return the tab to its original position | While dragging the tab, press Esc |
Dock a window on the left | Alt + [ |
Dock a window on the right | Alt + ] |
Page & web browser
Page up | Alt or Search and up arrow |
Page down | Alt or Search and down arrow |
Scroll down the web page | Space bar |
Go to top of page | Ctrl + Alt and up arrow |
Go to bottom of page | Ctrl + Alt and down arrow |
Print your current page | Ctrl + p |
Save your current page | Ctrl + s |
Reload your current page | Ctrl + r |
Reload your current page without using cached content | Ctrl + Shift + r |
Zoom in on the page | Ctrl and + |
Zoom out on the page | Ctrl and - |
Reset zoom level | Ctrl + 0 |
Stop the loading of your current page | Esc |
Right-click a link | Press Alt and click a link |
Open the link in a new tab in the background | Press Ctrl and click a link |
Save the link as a bookmark | Drag link to bookmarks bar |
Save your current webpage as a bookmark | Ctrl + d |
Save all open pages in your current window as bookmarks in a new folder | Ctrl + Shift + d |
Search the current page | Ctrl + f |
Go to the next match for your search | Ctrl + g or Enter |
Go to the previous match for your search | Ctrl + Shift + g or Shift + Enter |
Perform a Google search | Ctrl + k or Ctrl + e |
Add www. and .com to your input in the address bar, then open the page | Ctrl + Enter |
View page source | Ctrl + u |
Show or hide the Developer Tools panel | Ctrl + Shift + i |
Show or hide the DOM Inspector | Ctrl + Shift + j |
Show or hide the bookmarks bar | Ctrl + Shift + b |
Open the History page | Ctrl + h |
Open the Downloads page | Ctrl + j |
System & display settings
Open the Files app | Alt + Shift + m |
Preview a file in the Files app | Select the file, then press Space |
Display hidden files in the Files app | Ctrl + . |
Open the status area (where your account picture appears) | Shift + Alt + s |
Click icons 1-8 on your shelf | Alt + 1 through Alt + 8 |
Click the last icon on your shelf | Alt + 9 |
Use F keys (F1 to F12) | Search + 1 through Search + = |
See your notifications | Alt + Shift + n |
Change screen resolution | Ctrl + Shift and + or - |
Reset screen resolution to default | Ctrl + Shift + 0 |
Rotate screen 90 degrees | Ctrl + Shift + |
Switch to the next user | Ctrl + Alt + . |
Switch to the previous user | Ctrl + Alt + , |
Text editing
Turn Caps Lock on or off | Alt + Search |
Select everything on the page | Ctrl + a |
Select the content in the address bar | Ctrl + L or Alt + d |
Select the next word or letter | Ctrl + Shift and right arrow |
Select text to the end of the line | Shift + Search and right arrow |
Select text to the beginning of the line | Shift + Search and left arrow |
Select previous word or letter | Ctrl + Shift and left arrow |
Move to the end of the next word | Ctrl and right arrow |
Move to the start of the previous word | Ctrl and left arrow |
Go to end of document | Ctrl + Search and right arrow |
Go to beginning of document | Ctrl + Search and left arrow |
Copy selected content to the clipboard | Ctrl + c |
Paste content from the clipboard | Ctrl + v |
Paste content from the clipboard as plain text | Ctrl + Shift + v |
Cut | Ctrl + x |
Delete the previous word | Ctrl + Backspace |
Delete the next letter (forward delete) | Alt + Backspace |
Undo your last action | Ctrl + z |
Redo your last action | Ctrl + Shift + z |
Switch between the keyboard languages you've set. Learn how to choose your keyboard language. | Ctrl + Shift + Space |
Switch to the previous keyboard language you were using. Learn how to choose your keyboard language. | Ctrl + Space |
Dim keyboard (for backlit keyboards only) | Alt + |
Make keyboard brighter (for backlit keyboards only) | Alt + |
Accessibility
Learn how to make your Chromebook accessible.
Turn ChromeVox (spoken feedback) on or off | Ctrl + Alt + z |
Turn on high contrast mode | Shift + Search + h |
Highlight the launcher button on your shelf | Shift + Alt + L |
Highlight the next item on your shelf | Shift + Alt + L, then Tab or right arrow |
Highlight the previous item on your shelf | Shift + Alt + L, then Shift + Tab or left arrow |
Open the highlighted button on your shelf | Shift + Alt + L, then Space or Enter |
Remove the highlight from a button on your shelf | Shift + Alt + L, then Esc |
Switch focus between:
| Ctrl + or Ctrl + |
Highlight the bookmarks bar (if shown) | Alt + Shift + b |
Highlight the row with the address bar | Shift + Alt + t |
Open right-click menu for highlighted item | Shift + Search + |
Use shortcuts on a braille keyboard | See braille keyboard shortcuts |
Use your Chromebook touchpad
You can use your Chromebook's touchpad to right-click, switch between tabs, and more. Here's how it works:
Move the pointer | Move your finger across the touchpad. |
Click | Press or tap the lower half of the touchpad. |
Right-click | Press or tap the touchpad with two fingers. You can also press Alt, then click with one finger. |
Scroll | Place two fingers on the touchpad and move them up and down to scroll vertically, or left and right to scroll horizontally. |
Move between pages | To go back to a page you were just on, swipe left with two fingers. To go forward to a page you were just on, swipe right with two fingers. |
See all open windows | Swipe up or down with three fingers. If you have Australian scrolling turned on, swipe up. If you have traditional scrolling turned on, swipe down. |
Close a tab | Point to the tab, then tap or click the touchpad with three fingers. |
Open a link in a new tab | Point to the link, then tap or click the touchpad with three fingers. |
Switch between tabs | If you have multiple browser tabs open, swipe left and right with three fingers. |
Drag and drop | Using one finger, click and hold the item you want to move. Drag the item to its new spot, then release your finger. |
Change background and wallpaper
Choose background wallpaper
You can personalize your Chromebook with a custom wallpaper for your desktop.
Use wallpaper from Chromebook
- Right-click your desktop and select Set wallpaper.
- Click one of the images to set your wallpaper. You can also get a randomly selected image by checking the box next to Surprise me.
Use a custom wallpaper
- If you haven't yet, download an image (.png or .jpg) from the web that you’d like as your wallpaper.
- Click the Launcher All Apps.
- Select Files .
- In the left column, click Downloads.
- Right-click the image you want as your wallpaper, then click Set wallpaper.
Use the same wallpaper across multiple Chromebooks
- Click your account photo.
- Click Settings .
- In the "People" section, click Sync.
- Choose what you'd like to sync. To use all the same settings (including wallpaper) on every Chromebook you sign in to, turn on Sync everything.
Updating your Chromebook
Your Chromebook automatically checks for and downloads software updates by itself. This happens when your Chromebook is:
- Turned on
- Connected to Wi-Fi
- Not connected to a mobile hotspot or mobile data
Finish an update
When your Chromebook downloads a software update, you’ll see an arrow near your account photo:
To finish the update, click Update Restart to Update. Your Chromebook will restart.
Check for updates yourself
- Click your account photo.
- Click Settings .
- Click Menu About Chrome OS.
- Under "Google Chrome OS," click Check for Updates.
- If your Chromebook finds a software update, it will start to download automatically.
Tip: To see which version of the Chrome operating system your Chromebook is using, look under "Google Chrome OS."
Standards for Proper Care
TSC students must adhere to a set of care and usage standards when utilizing a TSC-issued device. Failure to adhere to these standards may result in damage to the device, potential damage charges, and other school-based consequences.
GENERAL USE
- If the device comes with a plastic protective case, the device must remain in the case at all times. If the device comes with a protective backpack, the device must be transported in the backpack at all times.
- Do not pick the device up by the corner of the screen or with one hand. The device should be picked up and carried from the base with two hands and closed when transporting from one location to another.
- Keep the devices free of any writing, drawing, stickers, or labels that are not applied by TSC.
- Always use the device on a flat, stable surface. While the device may be a laptop, it shouldn't sit on one's lap.
- Never leave any object on the keyboard. Pens or pencils left on the keyboard will crack the screen when the lid is closed.
- Do not set books on top of the device.
- Do not have food or drinks around the device.
- Wipe surfaces with a clean, dry soft cloth.
- Do not leave the device exposed to direct sunlight or near any heat or moisture sources for extended periods of time.
Power Management
- It is the student’s responsibility to recharge the devices battery so it is fully charged by the start of the next school day. The device should be charged each night!
- Lowering the screen brightness will conserve battery power.
- Devices with no battery life must be charged in the CRAM Classroom, a charging tower (High School) or Media Center (Middle School). The student forfeits use of the device for the entire time it takes to charge.
- All class work missed because of uncharged batteries must be made up on students’ own time.
TRANSPORT
- Always transport the device either in its protective plastic case or its protective backpack.
- When transporting the device in a backpack, do not overload the backpack with books, as pressure on the device can cause damage to the screen and other components.
- The device should be closed when transporting.
- Do not leave the device in a vehicle for extended periods of time or overnight.
- Do not leave the device in visible sight when left in a vehicle.
MONITORING AND SUPERVISION
- Do not leave the device unattended in an unlocked classroom or during an extracurricular activity.
- Do not lend the device to a classmate, friend, or family member.
- Any attempt to “jailbreak” or remove the TSC profile could result in discipline consequences.
- Students are expected to respect the web filter (on campus) as a safety precaution, and shall not attempt to circumvent the web filter such as using a proxy.
- Students are responsible for the safety and security of the device and any activity on the device.
- TSC may disable the device remotely to protect the device and/or data on the device.
NOTE: Failure to follow these precautions could result in a student being charged full replacement cost in the event of a lost, stolen or damaged device.
Rental Fee (Grades 6-12)
The Tippecanoe School Corporation views personal computing devices as necessary tools that are critical to student learning. In order to prepare students for an increasingly connected, technology-centric world, it is imperative for them to have access to high quality digital tools and resources. Just as students are required to pay rental fees each year for their textbooks and course materials, they also pay a rental fee for the personal computing device with which they're provided. The rental fee covers a fraction of the total cost of the device, but does not cover damages, theft, or loss. Currently, TSC students included in the 1 to 1 initiative have a different device depending on their grade level. However, the rental fee is the same regardless of the device model.
HARDWARE RENTAL FEE
$60.00 per year
The hardware rental fee will be included with the rest of the textbook and material fees assessed at the beginning of the school year. This fee does not provide coverage for potential damages and their corresponding charges.
Damages, Liability, and Repair Fees (All Grades)
TSC strives to issue students the same device for consecutive years throughout the life cycle of the device (4 years). Middle School students will be issued the same device in grades 6-8 (6th grade students will receive a used/repaired device, as the 3 year span of Middle School does not match the 4 year life cycle of the device). High School students will be issued the same device in grades 9-12. Minor damages may not result in charges from year to year. However, when the device is returned at the end of the cycle and will no longer be used by the student, repair charges may then be assessed, as the device must be returned to satisfactory condition at that time.
Please note: The below costs are an estimate, as the actual costs fluctuate on a regular basis.
Damage Insurance Options (Chromebooks & iPads)
TSC families who have students participating in the 1:1 initiative are encouraged to purchase an insurance policy from Worth Ave. Group to protect against potential damage and loss charges. Worth Ave. offers a variety of coverage options for each of the devices TSC students rent. Listed below is information about the insurance policies as well as instructions on how to file a claim. If covered damage/loss occurs, the upfront cost is paid by the student and a reimbursement claim is filed with Worth Ave. The TSC does not receive payments from Worth Ave.
Insurance Policies:
Filing a Claim:
GSuite Apps
Canvas
What is Canvas?
Canvas is a Learning Management System (LMS) that will be used by teachers and students at TSC Middle Schools and High Schools. Canvas makes teaching and learning easier for everyone.
What is a Learning Management System?
A Learning Management System, or LMS, is a web-based software application that provides a platform for the administration, documentation, tracking, reporting, and delivery of digital education material and courses. In short, an LMS is where teachers will post announcements, assignments, resources, quizzes, tests, and other course-related materials for students to access. Within the LMS, students will access a calendar that shows information for all of their courses, they will access course materials, collaborate with their peers and teachers, submit assignments, and take assessments.
Is Canvas different than PowerSchool?
Yes. PowerSchool is where students' final grades are stored, along with other information related to scheduling, transcripts, attendance, etc. Canvas is where teachers present content and information to students, collect work from students, communicate with students, and much more. Grades may be visible in the Canvas gradebook, but may not always be accurate. PowerSchool is where the "true" grades are stored.
How do TSC students login to Canvas?
TSC students login to Canvas through the internet at the website www.tsc.instructure.com using their TSC username and password. Students should create a bookmark in Chrome before logging in.
Is there an iOS or Android App that can be used?
Install the Canvas iOS App (students/teachers only)
Install the Canvas Android App (students/teachers only)
How do TSC students learn how to use Canvas?
Below is a quick start-guide with some of the basic information students will need to get started using Canvas. Students can also review the Student Guides.
Google Classroom
Digital Citizenship
Chrome at Home
TSC students can access their TSC Google account from any device. When accessing their Google account from a non-TSC Windows or Mac computer (personal device), instead of signing in to the Chrome browser with their TSC account, they should only sign in to Google services. Students will be unable to access most websites if they sign in to the Chrome browser at home due to TSC's internet filtering protocols.
To sign in to Google rather than the Chrome browser, navigate to www.google.com, drive.google.com, or any other Google service and sign in directly from that page. Signing in through this method will allow students to access their Google accounts and services without experiencing web filtering issues on their personal computers.
Policies and Guidelines
- TSC Student Acceptable Use Guidelines
- Device Ownership and Title
- Loss, Theft, or Damage
- Repossession
- Substitution of Equipment
- Terms of Agreement
- Unlawful Appropriation (Theft)
TSC Student Acceptable Use Guidelines
Device Ownership and Title
The Tippecanoe School Corporation has legal title to the property at all times. The user’s right of possession and use is limited to and conditioned upon full and complete compliance with this agreement, the TSC Student Acceptable Use Guidelines, and other technology-related guidelines included in their school's handbook. TSC administrative staff retains the right to collect and/or inspect the device at any time and for any reason, including via electronic remote access; and to alter, add or remove installed software or hardware. TSC will not utilize remote desktop connection to access the device's webcam.
Loss, Theft, or Damage
Should a TSC-issued device be damaged, lost, or stolen the student or parent/guardian should immediately notify the school administration. If a device is stolen the student/guardian should file a police report as soon as possible. If the device is lost, stolen, or totally damaged as a result of irresponsible behavior, the parent may be responsible for the full replacement cost. Students who cease to be enrolled at a TSC school must return the device, along with any other accessories, at the time they leave the Corporation. The device and all accessories should be returned to the CRAM Classroom/Window at the High School level, and the Media Center at the Middle School level.
Repossession
Substitution of Equipment
In the event the device becomes inoperable, TSC has a limited number of spares for use while the device is repaired or replaced. This agreement remains in effect for any substitute equipment. The student may not opt to keep a substitute "loaner" device or avoid using the substitute loaner due to loss or damage of the original. If a student’s assigned device no longer functions, the student should report it to the CRAM Classroom at the High School level or the Media Center at the Middle School level. No loaner device will be given to a student who does not bring his/her device to school.
Terms of Agreement
Unlawful Appropriation (Theft)
TSC Outdoor WiFi Options
To support remote and virtual learners who may have issues accessing high speed internet, the TSC has installed an outdoor WiFi antenna at each of its elementary and middle schools. The same solution will be installed at the high schools during upcoming renovations.
The TSC has partnered with Wintek/Tipmont to offer free, public WiFi at four of the outdoor Wifi locations (Klondike Elementary, East Tipp Middle, Southwestern Middle, and Wainwright Middle). This interactive map shows Wintek's public WiFi offerings throughout the region. At these locations, the TSC WiFi networks are available (TSC account required) as well as Wintek's free Wifi Network (no account required). The other 14 locations are only broadcasting the TSC WiFi networks (no free public option).
To access the outdoor WiFi options, patrons can drive their car near the locations identified on the maps linked below. For the free public options, users will connect their device to the “Free Wintek WiFi” signal. Patrons must agree to Wintek's terms of use before connecting and should treat this with the same caution as any other public internet connection. Use care when connecting to any websites that require a password or personal information. This includes social networking sites, online banking services or any websites that store your credit card information.
To access the TSC WiFi networks, a student or staff username and password is required. Users of these networks are subject to the TSC's Acceptable Use Policies.
Users are strongly encouraged to practice social distancing measures when using the outdoor WiFi at these locations.