Education has always stood the test of time in educating the next generations. Despite it being one of the longest staples of society, the education industry has evolved from the traditional methods of textbooks and physical classrooms. Nowadays, one will see more and more schools using computers and other such devices to teach students. And it’s all thanks to cloud computing!
Cloud computing is always online, and has data storage and computing power, which can be managed by users via computers and mobile devices. As you can see, technology fuels this new way to educate.
In this quick guide, we’ll explore how cloud computing has transformed education. Let’s jump right in!
Modernization
Want a more modern approach to learning? Then cloud computing has educators covered!
No longer are students slaves to thick (and dusty) textbooks, when teachers can use cloud computing to the classroom’s advantage. From finding information to using modernized tools in conjunction with the curriculum, this modern approach to learning has transformed education.
In addition, cloud computing is more efficient to maintain, and faster to download things from, versus the traditional method of having a filing system that can be complicated to maintain, and time-consuming to go through to find information. Therefore, teachers and students can communicate better when online learning management systems are implemented.
Available Anytime, Anywhere
Education is – and should be – done on the fly, especially when traditional schools and institutions are run by semesters. But sometimes, there are individuals don’t have time to continue their education once they leave high school.
But not to worry! Cloud computing can make courses – or, at the very least, online educational resources – more accessible to everyone. Even for those who find it hard to gain access to a physical classroom, cloud computing makes education accessible regardless of your living situation (a large example being the recent rise in virtual learning).
The technology can also make it to where educators can check for plagiarism and any cheating tactics. And, downloading and accessing these resources are faster than ever before.
Stronger Virtual Classes
As mentioned, cloud computing has brought on the recent rise of virtual learning. With cloud-based software, educational organizations have adapted to having virtual classrooms for their students. This adoption has brought on the following changes:
- Infrastructural costs are reduced to a certain extent (i.e., classroom space, in-school equipment, etc.).
- Onboarding expenses for regular teachers in facilities are reduced. In its place, teachers and skilled trainers can opt for teaching and offering resources remotely.
- Teachers can create and deliver online courses to students anytime, anywhere.
- As for students, they can appear for virtual exams, thus saving time and expenses.
Cost-Efficient
Schools and institutions are always looking for ways to save money, especially when it comes to having a school budget. Cloud computing can help with that as well!
Cloud computing has been deemed to be cost-efficient in the following ways:
- Educators can simplify processes (i.e., assignment tracking, enrollment, etc.) with cloud computing-supported devices.
- Students don’t need to buy expensive books and applications, when learning resources can be found on the cloud.
- Plus, infrastructural costs are lowered, when it comes to maintaining a physical facility.
Data Storage Made Secure
Security is taken seriously with cloud computing.
First, data storage is not only made easier to access by users, but also made secure by user permissions. One of the best ways to secure this important data is through VPN protocols. VPN is responsible for automatic encryption of outgoing data and traffic, making it safer and easier for learning content to be transferred to users without compromising integrity.
Plus, cloud computing makes these educational resources more vetted, as students share their notes with professors and each other online. Apps and digital resources are now making it safer for classes to commence without interference from bad actors.
More Collaboration
Now, it’s easier than ever for students to collaborate with each other on classroom projects, along with projects outside the classroom. Cloud computing ensures that collaborative learning can take place, as it encourages problem-solving scenarios, and helps students develop interpersonal skills when working with each other. As you can see, collaborative learning can take place online, no matter where students are, thus taking the stress out of having to be at one place in one time.
Doesn’t Take Much Hardware
Finally, cloud-based applications don’t need as much hardware as one might suspect. In fact, these applications will work just fine with an Internet connection, and on almost any desktop and mobile device (Yes, smartphones included!). Even if some students don’t have computers, if they have a smartphone, then that will do!
Conclusion
Ultimately, cloud computing has transformed the education industry by bringing many new and cost-effective solutions to education. By looking at the benefits, as depicted in this guide, this technology has not only benefited educators, but also students. Cloud computing has changed – and will continue to change – how we educate future generations.
Also read about: Data Security in Cloud Computing. Is it Real?