Digital Learning & Technology

Managed Chromebooks Required for Computer-Based Testing

To:	Educational Technology Directors and MCAS Test Coordinators
From:	Ken Klau, Director of Instructional Policy, Michol Stapel, Associate Commissioner for Student Assessment
Date:	February 26, 2019

The purpose of this memo is to clarify that any district-owned Chromebook used to administer computer-based MCAS tests must be a managed device in order to run TestNav. Districts seeking to use unmanaged Chromebooks for testing, whether district-or student-owned, must first purchase an appropriate Chrome management license.

Background

Many districts purchase Chromebooks for the dual purpose of instruction and computer-based testing (CBT). Districts have the option of purchasing Chromebooks with or without Chrome management. A managed device allows a staff member, such as an IT administrator, the ability to set up Chrome features for users, provide access to the wireless network, deploy Chromebooks for testing, and enforce policies, such as allowing or blocking apps, extensions, or access to websites. An unmanaged device does not provide these features. In general, districts are not recommended to purchase unmanaged devices for district use. Districts that permit the use of unmanaged devices, such as in a bring your own device (BYOD) environment, should take additional steps to secure those devices before they access the network.

What to Do if My District Uses Unmanaged Chromebooks

Unmanaged Chromebooks cannot be used to administer computer-based MCAS tests because TestNav will not operate properly on those devices. Districts must purchase an appropriate Chrome management license from Google or their hardware provider to use Chromebooks for testing. Districts typically pay $10 per device to operate a single application on an annual basis or pay between $25-$35 for the life of the device to run unlimited applications.

What to Do if My District Uses Managed Chromebooks or Other Devices

Managed Chromebooks and other devices running other operating systems are suitable for computer-based testing, so long as they meet the technology specifications. In general, it is a good practice to thoroughly review your inventory of available devices prior to testing.

Last Updated: February 26, 2019