Cloud-Based eLearning
One of the latest technologies to be leveraged in eLearning is cloud computing. Let’s understand this concept in detail. Cloud computing basically means hosting the information or system on a server (cloud platform) and users can access the information or system directly from the server without having anything locally. For example, a software provider may host its software on a cloud platform and then the user can use the software from the cloud without installing it on the local machine.
So How Is Cloud-Based eLearning Different From Traditional eLearning?
Traditional eLearning resources are hosted on separate servers—these include both learning material and supporting infrastructure, such as Learning Management Systems, supporting software, supporting environment as well as eLearning authoring tools. On the other hand, the cloud-based eLearning approach uses an integrated infrastructure of content, authoring tools, Learning Management Systems, content, database, etc.
Let’s consider an example:
Suppose ABC Limited wants a comprehensive eLearning program for its employees. So, what does it need? It needs a platform to host its Learning Management System, server space to upload content and store user data, an authoring tool for content creators to be installed on each machine they use, supporting environment for all users, and so on.
What if they migrate to a cloud-based eLearning approach?
All ABC Limited's needs are taken care of with a cloud-based eLearning service provider, and they just have to log in to enjoy all the benefits without needing any specialized hardware or software.
Here is a comparison of traditional eLearning and cloud-based eLearning:
| Services | Traditional eLearning | Cloud-Based eLearning |
| Acquisition Model | Buy Assets | Build Technical Architecture | Buy Service | Architecture Included |
| Business Model | Pay For Assets | Large administrative Overhead | Pay For Use | Reduced Admin. Function |
| Access Model | Internal Networks | Corporate Desktop | Over The Internet | Any device |
| Technical Model | Single-Tenant, Non-Shared | Static | Multi-Tenant, Scalable, Elastic, | Dynamic |
| Delivery Model | Costly, Lengthy Deployments | Land And Expand Staffing | Reduced Deployment Time | Fast ROI |
So, what are the advantages of cloud-based eLearning? There are several advantages of eLearning implementation of cloud computing technology, which include:
1. Low Cost
eLearning computer users need not configure for eLearning applications. They can use cloud applications via PC, mobile phone, tablet, with an internet connection to run with minimal configuration. Since the data is generated in the cloud, the users do not need to spend more money on large memory for storing data on a local machine. The organization must also pay per use, so it is cheaper to pay only for the space they need.
2. Improved Performance
Since the cloud-based eLearning applications have most of the applications and processes in the cloud, client machines do not create problems on performance when they are working.
3. Instant Software Updates
Since cloud-based applications for eLearning runs with super-strength, super-source software is automatically updated. So, online learners always receive updates easily and instantly.
4. Improved Compatibility With Document Formats
Since some file formats and fonts do not open properly on some PCs/mobile phones, the cloud-powered eLearning applications do not have to worry about these kinds of problems. As the cloud-based eLearning applications open the file from the cloud.
5. Benefits For Learners
Learners get more benefits from cloud-based eLearning. They can take online courses, take the exam online, receive feedback about coaches, and post projects and assignments online through their teachers.
6. Benefits For Instructors
The instructor also gets numerous benefits because of cloud-based eLearning. They can prepare online tests for students, they can use the content management system to interact better with students and provide better resources, assessment tests, etc. They can give feedback and communicate with the learners through the forum online.
7. Information Security
A very big concern is related to the data security because both the software and the data are located on remote servers that can crash or disappear without any additional warnings. Even if it seems not very reasonable, cloud computing provides some major security benefits for individuals and companies that are using/developing eLearning solutions.
In short, cloud-based eLearning holds the key to the future of learning technology with its many advantages. With advances in cloud computing and the ever-increasing internet speed, cloud-based eLearning will definitely be a game-changer.
Originally published at blog.hexalearn.com.
