With the growing popularity of cloud technologies, educational technology (EdTech) has undergone some changes in its development. Cloud-based EdTech isn’t new, but should you opt for it?
As experts in EdTech software development, we’ll explain how EdTech benefits from cloud technologies. Read more about our EdTech Development expertise.
What is cloud computing?
Cloud computing usually refers to remote servers where your software is stored. It allows businesses and users to use computing resources as a service instead of relying on your in-house infrastructure to compute and distribute data to users.
Cloud systems are easy to scale and don’t need maintenance since it’s delegated to the cloud providers.
The shift from traditional on-premise systems to cloud-based solutions has changed how educational content is delivered, accessed, and managed. But what exactly has changed, and why does it matter?
Benefits of cloud computing
Accessibility for All
One of the most immediate benefits of cloud computing in EdTech is improved accessibility. Students, teachers, and administrators are no longer tied to specific devices to access educational resources.
Cloud technologies make learning materials, assignments, and tools accessible anywhere, at any time. This feature is especially useful for students who travel or stay in remote places without being able to attend offline classes, making education more inclusive.
Scalability and Cost-Efficiency
Cloud technology has also enabled businesses to scale efficiently.
Usually, businesses have to invest in expensive physical infrastructure and its maintenance to deliver the EdTech platform to users. However, with cloud technologies, they can rely on the cloud to store and manage vast amounts of data. Additionally, the cloud can support a growing number of users without the need for heavy additional investments.
For educational institutions, this shift has made high-quality tools and services more affordable and sustainable in the long term.
Real-Time Collaboration and Feedback
Cloud-based EdTech tools empowered new levels of student-teacher collaboration. Shared documents, virtual classrooms, and real-time feedback have made learning no longer limited to a single classroom or one-way communication.
Teachers can provide instant feedback, students can collaborate on projects, and both can access resources in real-time, improving engagement and interaction.
Data and Analytics for Better Learning
Cloud computing also helps collect and analyse vast amounts of learning data. Teachers can track student progress, businesses can identify trends, and the platform personalise learning experiences based on real-time insights. This data-driven approach helps teachers and institutions better support individual student needs and improve overall educational outcomes.
Security and Updates Made Easy
Despite the belief that cloud services are less secure compared to in-house servers, it’s far from true.
The cloud offers enhanced security for sensitive student data, automatic updates, and maintenance. This shifts the security expenses from the business to cloud providers. They handle complex IT infrastructure and ensure the platform remains secure, up-to-date, and functional.
Conclusion
The impact of cloud computing on the EdTech industry is immense. It enhanced accessibility, and scaling, as well as brought collaboration to the next level.
It enabled businesses to build flexible, cost-effective solutions, providing teachers with the tools for personalised approach and improved learning experiences.
