Green Computing through Virtual Learning Environments

Background

As virtual learning has come of age, green computing has been posited as a way for organizations and individuals to be efficient in time, currency and resources. Childs (2008) defined green computing as the “study and practice of using computing resources efficiently” (p. 1) that includes the lifecycle of technology: the design, manufacture, use, and disposal of computer hardware and software (Lo & Qian, 2010). In this chapter, the authors will focus on how existing technologies can be utilized efficiently in higher education and within industry to shrink travel time and cost, improve efficiency, and lessen environmental impact.

The following sections of this chapter will highlight various examples of green computing initiatives in higher education and the workplace that are making a real difference in lowering costs and increasing efficiency. Discussions include the use of cloud computing, mobile devices, digital badge technologies, real-time group meetings (RTGMs), and virtual and blended professional conferences. Each will be examined both for their potential for green computing as defined previously.