Chromebooks are very popular in the world of education, and Google has just discovered a new initiative that aims to involve students in the repair of laptops in the US.
The Chromebook Self-Repair Program for Schools encourages students to make simple repairs, and Google provides tremendous help in setting up such a program at school, as noted by Ars Technica.
This includes guides to show which Chromebooks have Generally Refurbished components, for example the keyboard or display, as well as instructions on how to safely replace or repair those parts (as well as the tools required).
Acer and Lenovo currently have 9 Chromebooks between them with manufacturer repair guides like these, with the idea of expanding this content in the future.
In a PDF, Google also outlines the basics of "best practices" for a school Chromebook repair service, and advises setting up a dedicated space for students to work on repairs, including a reception desk at so that customers of the service can visit with their inconvenience. . hardware store, repair benches and also storage facilities for the different components and precise spare parts.
Naturally, students involved in repair work must first fill out the required training, and more information on "self-maintenance training" can be obtained from the relevant Chromebook manufacturers (ie Acer and Lenovo).
Analysis: Moving Forward with Sustainability and IT Skills
This program is good news from a sustainability perspective: the more Chromebooks that can be returned to service instead of being thrown away, the better, of course, although, as you can imagine, the scope of the repair work is limited. Students are not going to pull out soldering irons or anything like that, they are just going to take things apart and use a screwdriver.
However, it is undeniably useful for developing useful and practical computer skills and for better understanding how laptops work. As James Vick (Acer's Vice President of US Customer Service) states: "Campus repair programs allow students to assist their school by making safe and fast Chromebook repairs, while teaching them valuable transferable skill that can help them pursue a career in the IT field.
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