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1. What is it?<\/strong><\/p>\n Cloud-based apps are programs accessed via the Internet.<\/p>\n 2. How does it work?<\/strong><\/p>\n In cloud computing, the software and storage exists on a remote network of computers instead of on the user\u2019s computer. For backup, cloud-computing systems copy user information and store it on multiple devices in order to ensure customer access in the event of an equipment malfunction or breakdown. Usually, a copy of each file is also kept on each user’s device enabling them to access the material without Internet connection. The files are then synced when access is available.<\/p>\n 3. Who\u2019s doing it?<\/strong><\/p>\n Microsoft, Google and IBM are investing millions for research on cloud computing. Apple may also be considering developing a cloud-computing interface.<\/p>\n 4. Why is it significant?<\/strong><\/p>\n When Apple created its first iPod Touches and iPhones in 2007, it sparked changes in how society approached and used technology. \u00a0Intelligent devices, which blurred the lines of personal computing, and extended the possibilities of portability became mainstream. \u00a0While some effects, such as educational app use with tablets, are becoming commonplace, others, such as the use of cloud based apps are a developing trend for education.<\/p>\n The growth of cloud applications for personal use is explosive, and as such demands a response from education; in its ubiquity and its efficacy it must be considered as a tool for education.<\/p>\n \u00a0The advantages offered by cloud computing include<\/p>\n 5. What are the downsides?<\/strong><\/p>\n There are many concerns that go along with cloud based computing and apps.<\/p>\n An initial concern with the use of cloud based apps will be c<\/strong>onnectivity<\/strong>. Although designed to be a strength, cloud based apps rely on an Internet connection. For those living in areas with limited connectivity, this may create issues. Rural locations still working on dialup, Internet service from behind firewalls, or even households without internet access would be barriers to the use of cloud based apps. \u00a0Unfortunately, it would appear cloud based computing favors people along economic lines. \u00a0 In addition, many schools may shy away from cloud based computing as fear of over-used bandwidth could be an issue.<\/span><\/p>\n Especially for education, security and privacy<\/strong> of data stored in the cloud must be considered. Potential concerns can arise from security breaches where unapproved individuals gain access to the data, but incidents where data is being mined for marketing insights by the cloud service provider are also possible. With the loss of physical control, storage in the cloud continues to create new concerns. \u00a0Security should be the biggest consideration for educators. \u00a0Considering the potential sensitive data which educators are exposed to on a daily basis, security must be considered. \u00a0Due to its nature, cloud computing can face three very real threats: infiltration (getting into the system), data viewing (what an infiltrator can see), and data loss (what if a hacker wiped out every student’s records and marks?). For this reason, some institutions forbid the use of cloud-based programs for what they consider sensitive information.<\/p>\n Is your information safe? Try the\u00a0Internet Cloud Security Quiz<\/a>\u00a0and find out.<\/p>\n A tradeoff<\/strong> exists when purchasing cloud storage, between cost<\/strong> \u00a0(for example, MSOffice 365 is $78, whereas Google Docs is free), the options available and user-friendliness<\/strong>. MSOffice 365 offers a lot more options and is a bit more user-friendly. Moreover, if you need a lot of cloud storage, that comes at a premium. \u00a0Cloud computing could potentially be cheaper due to a lack of software, but in an educational setting one must also consider the number of stations and computers affected.<\/p>\n Another issue is skill level,<\/strong> as some cloud based apps require something akin to a computer science degree. \u00a0Not only may the programs or applications not be user friendly, but there is upkeep to be considered. \u00a0Most districts have an IT department which deals with issues. \u00a0It would be fair to assume if districts adopted a big shift to cloud-based computing that the IT department would need extra personnel.<\/p>\n The last big concern with respect to cloud computing is ownership<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Who owns the data and who controls access to it – the user, the user\u2019s company, the cloud computing company? These are questions that would need to be answered. \u00a0For example, if I create a lesson plan, but store it and use it from a cloud companies application, is it mine or theirs? \u00a0There are many questions which need some answers prior to considering cloud based applications.<\/p>\n 6. Where is it going?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Cloud based apps will grow in significance as users look for continuity in their data across devices and platforms. \u00a0With the rise in mobile computing and with students being encouraged to bring their own devices, the accessibility provided by cloud-based apps will insure that individuals can get to and work with their data anywhere they have internet connectivity.<\/p>\n 7. What are the implications for education?<\/strong><\/p>\n Being able to access, share and collaborate across multiple devices and platforms will provide endless possibilities as to how academic work can be conducted, completed and presented.<\/p>\n \n \n Resources<\/strong><\/p>\n Double click on the graphic to make it bigger. 1. What is it? Cloud-based apps are programs accessed via the Internet. 2. How does it work? In cloud computing, the software and storage exists on a remote network of…<\/span><\/p>\n\n
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