Chromium Creativity

Chromebooks are a great device for being productive, but they can be overlooked when it comes to creation. Though I have nothing against MacBooks' performance, their price is steep. For a fraction of the price, you can get a Chromebook that can create beautifully. If you are a professional designer, a MacBook or another full-scale device might be necessary. However, for the average consumer, Chromebooks offer a full line of free or affordable apps for creation.

I've organized some of my favorite creation tools for K-12 students into Chromium Creativity (it says K-5 since many can be used for K-5, but they could also be used for K-12). Per viewer suggestions, I've also added in suggested ages as it can sometimes be hard to find appropriate applications for PK-2 students. Check the presentation notes section for more details.

Check out fennovation.org for even more Googleness!

Be creative with Chrome

When teachers ask me what they can do with a Chromebook, I reply - everything. But, it involves a different way of looking at programs. In the past, we've thought about traditional, install-based programs. With a Chromebook, it's all about Web versions of a program. And, since there are so many to choose from, it's about finding the right fit.

There are definitely some that work better than others, but I generally aim for free. And with the plethora of apps available, it's not difficult to switch from one to the next. The exception - movie editing. So far, the only true movie editor I have found for relatively "free" is Movie Maker. And while I like it, you are limited on the basic features. There are many that will make slideshows and animations, but few that will edit video for free.

That said, I've compiled some of my favorite applications available on the Chromebook - for free - for creation. Check out Chromium Creativity for creativity in Chrome and explore fennovation.org for all other things Chrome.

Enjoy!

Get creative with Chrome

Creativity is the most important skill to me. Creativity keeps us inspired and produces innovations. I could go on for days on the importance of creativity, but I'll keep this short.

It's no surprise the Chromebooks have officially surpassed iPads in the education market. iPads once held the market on creativity. However, Chrome OS and the Chrome browser feature a variety of free tools that target creativity, one of the four essential skills (along with collaboration, critical thinking, and communication).

Check out my favorite Chrome tools for creativity in Chromium Creativity as well as all things Chrome on fennovation.org.

Enjoy! And, happy creating!