Cloud computing, simply put, allows users (an individual, business, organisation, or school) to connect to as many resources as they require, without having to own, possess, or maintain those resources on site, and at much less cost. Software and hardware are provided as a third-party service. Computer software applications, storage, archiving, backup, and disaster recovery, and updates are all services provided in cloud computing. An organization signs up to the services they require, and only pay for what service they use. Common business applications are accessed online, files are stored, and backed up by the cloud computing service. Applications are updated automatically at no cost to the client. Not all the services are located in one place. For example, storage may be stored over many computers all over the world—not that the user would know that. Services are on-demand and easily accessible.
IT Services
Server Virtualisation
Application Hosting
Data Storage
Co-Location
Disaster Recovery
SAN, Failover
Remote Operations
Help Desk
Field Services
Web Hosting
Communication Services
Fast Internet, Email
Virus, SPAM control
Intra School VPNs
IP Security Cameras
Unified Communications
VoiP
Video Conferencing
Desktop/ Mobile Communications
Karen Connection
e-Learning Services
ePortolios (web lockers)
3D collaboration
Content Services
Global Classrooms experience/ brokerage
Library (Loc/Nat) Content
Learning on line
Virtual Learning
Video Sharing /Streaming /Multicast
Administration Services
Finance management system
Student management system
Learning management systems
Content management systems
Library management systems
Planning tools
Software services
Advantages of cloud computing for education are twofold:
Reduction in overall costs and liabilities for schools, and better management of costs on a service model provision.
Students (and staff) are able to access applications, resources and data from anywhere, at any time and on any device.