Abstract :
Cloud computing is a relative new technology that has various advantages, including specific applicable to education. In this paper, we discuss the influence of cloud computing on learners, teachers and educational institutions. Cloud computing, especially with relation to mobile learning, will improve the current institutional system of education, and also the quality and affordability of education. Mobile learning, which is a learning model that blends wireless technology and mobile computing, are introducing a cultural shift. The main output of this paper is a conceptual framework for educational cloud architecture design. In South Africa, with its low number of personal computers per capita, but high number of mobile phones, utilizing cloud computing in education is ideal, since it allows the access of education resources to a high number of learners. However, certain challenges are faced, including the lack of relevant and content specific education resources.
Keywords :
cloud computing; computer aided instruction; educational institutions; mobile computing; mobile radio; South Africa; cloud computing; cultural shift; education institution; education resource access; educational cloud architecture design; educational institution; learners; learning model; mobile cloud framework architecture; mobile computing; mobile learning; mobile phones; personal computers; teachers; wireless technology; Business; Cloud computing; Computer architecture; Educational institutions; Electronic learning; Mobile communication; cloud computing; component; education; formatting; insert; mobile devices; style; styling;