Apps and Extensions

What's the Difference?

Apps--These are very similar to programs you would use on a non web-based computer. The biggest difference is that apps run from the web whereas programs run from the actual computer. You can add numerous apps to your Chromebooks, and trust me the Web Store has countless apps from which to choose. Your apps only run when you open them, so they do not slow down your computer if you have tons of them. Google Drive, Google Docs, Google Slides, Google Drawings, Google Forms, Google Calendar, etc. are all apps on your Chromebook. Some apps can run offline as well.

Extensions--These are features that enhance your experience while using your apps. Extensions appear next to the URL bar and run continuously when the browser is open. Therefore, if you add an enormous quantity of extensions, you could slow down your Chrome browser. Typically, extensions do not run on their own. Instead, you can alter your browsing or app use with certain extensions. Extensions also abound within the Web Store, so find some that work for you.

Recommended Apps and Extensions

Here is a small grouping of apps and extensions to check out along with a brief synopsis of what they do and how they could be helpful for students and teachers.

Google Backpack

Some other good finds:

                      Shortcuts for Google--extension                             Youtube--app
                      goo.gl URL shortener--extension                            Google Classroom--app
                      OneTab--extension                                                WeVideo--app
                      Grammarly--extension                                           ClipChamp--app
                      TechSmith SnagIt--extension                                 CloudConvert--app
                      Screencastify--extension                                       Newsela--app
                      Evernote--extension and app                                 PDF viewer--app