Introduction
As a primary school, HBS Schwieberdingen has specific security requirements when it comes to the use of digital devices in the classroom. To meet these needs, the institution relies on Chromebooks. These affordable devices offer numerous customization options and easy management. They are convertible, allowing use in both laptop and tablet modes. We assisted in setting up the admin console through training. Additionally, the school utilises the online-based applications of Google Workspace for Education. This enables activities such as conducting lessons and parent meetings via video chat.
About HBS Schwieberdingen
The Hermann-Butzer-Schule
in Schwieberdingen is a primary school with a total of 18 primary classes, two preparatory classes and a primary school support class. As an independently run institution, it currently prepares over 460 pupils for further education.
The Challenge
To promote digital competency and modernise learning, HBS Schwieberdingen sought a cost-effective and secure solution. The goal was to equip over 460 elementary school students and teachers with devices and establish a digital primary school. Key requirements included the easy management of devices and security settings that enable age-appropriate use in primary education. Additionally, the institution needed a simple and secure software solution for communication and document creation.
The Solution
HBS Schwieberdingen relies on Chromebooks. Through a central admin console, the devices can be easily configured online with various settings. Christoph Cimander, Vice Principal of HBS, explains, "For example, we have set the Chromebooks to be locked from 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM. We also work with whitelists, meaning students can only access URLs approved by us." Cloudwürdig provided support with admin training and the provision of necessary Education Upgrades (management licences). For teaching, the institution uses various learning applications like the digital maths trainer. Christoph Cimander says, "My maths class receives assignments on the Chromebook twice a week. It works excellently."
Furthermore, HBS utilises the online-based apps of Google Workspace for Education.
- Teaching or parent meetings via video conference
- Easy distribution of school assignments and learning videos through Google Classroom
- Organisation of timetables and exams through Google Calendar
- Collaborative creation of presentations
- And setting up a website with short tutorials on specific apps using Google Sites.
All of this is already a reality at HBS Schwieberdingen.
Results and Benefits
Internal communication within the primary school is now completely paperless, and the digital medium makes the school day much easier in many aspects. Christoph Cimander says, "For example, I don't have to stay at school until late at night for every parent meeting." He is also enthusiastic about the Chromebooks: "When I look at what Chromebooks cost compared to devices from other well-known manufacturers, it's about half the price. And on top of that, we have less wear and tear." However, what convinces him the most is the easy management. "Of course, you need to familiarise yourself a bit, and we had support from tech-savvy parents. But it's really manageable."
“You drag a Chromebook into a specific organisational unit in the admin console, and within seconds, the device is equipped with the corresponding settings. I find that fascinating.”
– Christoph Cimander, Deputy principal of the HBS Schwieberdingen
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