Abstract
Integration of modern technology in enhancing learner-centered approach to instruction is increasingly being encouraged in higher education. Cloud computing has enhanced the way data is shared and stored. Learning resources can be stored in cloud computers thus, enabling groups of students to collaborate and edit shared materials. In addition, it also provides a number of advantages such as reduce storage cost, enhanced security, accessibility of learning materials and easy communication. Tutorial classes can take advantage of cloud computing to have the tutorial learning resources stored in the cloud. This will allow learners to collaborate online and edit tutorial materials regardless of the physical location of the participants. This book chapter discusses how cloud computing technologies can be utilized in education sector and proposes a cloud computing model which can be incorporated in a tutorial class to improve learner-centered teaching pedagogies in a tutorial class.
TopOverview Of The Chapter
This chapter first examines some literature on cloud computing. Secondly, it explores on the use of clouding computing in education sector. Thirdly, it discusses about tutorial classes and how to transform tutorial classes outcomes into digital content by utilizing cloud computing technology. Fourthly, it discusses a framework for tutorial management using cloud computing technology. Finally, it presents conclusion and recommendations on future trends in the use cloud computing in tutorials.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Computer Server: A computer or device on a network that manages network resources.
Collaborative Learning: Situation in which two or more people learn or attempt to learn something together in order to achieve a common goal.
Web Application: An application program, stored in a remote server, utilizing web and browser technologies to accomplish one or more tasks over a network, typically through a [web] browser.
Virtualization: The creation of a virtual (rather than real) version of something such as an operating system, a server, a storage device or network resources.
Discussion Forum: A program which allows members to hold discussions online. The discussion is started by one member by posting a topic and other members reply. This allows members of the same group to share information and ideas.
Backup: A duplicate copy of computer files and data in case the original gets damaged.
Application Software: Computer software designed to help the user to perform singular or multiple related specific. It is also known as application.
Client: A software program that is used to contact and obtain data from a server over a computer network on the Internet.
Scalability: The ability of a system, network, or process to handle a growing amount of work in a capable manner.
Platform: An underlying computer system on which application programs can run.
Client-server: A software architecture model consisting of two parts, client systems and server systems, both communicating over a computer network or on the same computer.
E-Learning: A learning process that uses Internet technology to design, implement, select, manage, support and extend learning.
Cloud Computing: The practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the Internet to store, manage, and process data, rather than a local server.
Learning Management System: A software application for administration, documentation, tracking, reporting and delivery of e-learning courses or training programs.
Software: The programs and other operating information used by a computer. It is also referred to as computer programs.