Cloud technology and e-learning: Transforming the education sector

India’s online education market is projected to reach INR 360 billion by 2024

India’s education sector is one of the largest in the world and is progressing at a breakneck pace each year. In 2019, the fast-expanding industry was valued at over USD 101 billion and is continuing to grow. One aspect that has been a key reason for the education sector’s overall progress is the tech-led e-learning space.

Cutting-edge technology such as AI, ML, and most importantly, Cloud Computing, has been playing an instrumental role in the rapid growth and evolution of the online learning sector. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has only further propelled its advancement. The advent of cloud computing has been unimaginably beneficial in helping the education sector scale new heights. Let us take a look at how cloud and e-learning have played pivotal roles in transforming the education segment.

What is cloud computing?

Cloud computing has revolutionized the way we access applications on the internet. Cloud computing is the delivery of storage, networking, analytics, and databases which are internet-based servers and therefore require less hardware and make for convenient usage overall.

Re-innovating the education sector

E-learning integrated with the cloud offers a plethora of benefits for the education industry. With educational institutions turning to e-learning to maintain continuity of academics amidst the pandemic and several lockdowns, adopting cloud-based models of e-learning is the need of the hour. Today, with virtual classroom system, live classes, and on-the-spot doubt clearance that deliver face-to-face interactions between teachers and students, e-learning has become the go-to solution for educators.

Since cloud-based e-learning saves data on internet servers, their reach is widespread, and anyone can gain access to it. All one needs is a device and a stable broadband connection. E-learning facilitated by the cloud is also highly feasible even for those in tier-II, tier-III cities, and rural areas with increased internet penetration. In fact, in such areas, students might not have sufficient access to physical tuition centers and classrooms which leaves them with the option of online learning.

Additionally, e-learning through video conferencing system optimizes cost since there is a reduced need for hardware and paper, making it environment-friendly and sustainable in the longer run. Another key advantage of e-learning is that there are real-time updates, thus eliminating the usage of the outdated curriculum.

Enhanced security

When it comes to anything online, there exists a persistent question of whether it is safe. However, gone are the days when there was no encryption, and anyone could intercept or hack into websites and accounts. Rapid technological evolution has contributed to safer online platforms with robust security and encryption. This results in reduced incidents of data theft or loss.

The road ahead

It is no surprise that the future is going to be driven entirely by technology. With the current pandemic forcing people to remain indoors, e-learning has witnessed exponential demand, and education is one of the few sectors which has been profiting despite the crisis. Countless ed-tech platforms offer cloud-based e-learning with best-in-class teaching models, making for a holistic learning experience. Although e-learning is not a new concept, it has certainly taken the education sector by storm and is here to stay, especially with the constant technological advancements. While traditional learning methods such as physical schools/colleges and classrooms cannot be done away with entirely, the future will see an increased number of people gravitating towards e-learning.