Bear River is having a love-hate relationship with their Chromebooks.

Students and teachers across the school are having mixed opinions about the new Chromebooks. While many say the devices are an amazing addition, finding the balance between using the Chromebooks for work and silliness have proved a challenge.

Teachers reported some difficulties as they attempted to keep the misuse of Chromebooks under control. English Teacher Raymond Rice said he uses the devices “instead of handing out a hard copy of something.”

“I think they’re great, (albeit) a little hard to ‘police,’” said Mr. Rice. “It’s nice for things like research, but it can be a distraction. It won’t affect the way I teach.”

Teachers aren’t the only ones conflicted about the Chromebooks. Many students have mixed feelings.

“I think it’s a great way to get your work done and it’s helpful to get work done in class,” said Senior Viviana Chaves. “I feel like I learn quicker, now I can just research it right away. A lot of people go on it.”

On the other hand, Riley Slater, a junior, said the Chromebooks made goofing off a temptation.

“People are playing video games instead of learning,” he said.

Along with students and teachers, Principal Amy Besler sees all the goods and bads of the Chromebooks at Bear River High School.

“Each student having access to a Chromebook, both throughout the school day and at home for school work, opens up so many possibilities for teaching and learning,” she said. “We are no longer limited to the curriculum that exists in textbooks, which is important, in a rapidly-changing world.”

Mrs. Besler also addressed the challenges posed by Chromebooks.

“The challenge for teachers is to ensure that students are not distracted by the Chromebooks and that students remain focused on the task at hand,” she said. “… Of course, technology will never replace the relationship between teacher and students, which is the foundation of everything that occurs in the classroom.”