Cloud Computing as Cost Effective Training Solutions

Aside from social networking, cloud computing was another buzzword that flies around the IT industry bringing with it innovations that could determine where the next computing evolution is headed.

What the heck is cloud computing? You may ask. I’ve been talking with a couple of my friends who are in the IT field. One is working for a pharmaceutical company and the other a software outsourcing firm. The first one didn’t know what I was talking about and the second knew only the term but does not know the entire concept. Well it’s surprising to me as I’ve been suing my Google Docs for almost two years now. I guess what I’m trying to say here is that cloud computing has crept into our lives without us even realizing it. This cloud innovation blended seamlessly with the Internet that we are not aware of how applications have been migrating to this virtual place. A cloud is just another name for a remote server where applications and data are stored. While in the past, you need to install software on your computer to run program, today, you only need a browser and reliable computer to operate applications.


e learning development tools

This brings me to applications of the cloud to elearning. Elearning has been around for quite some time. In the past, cost effective training solutions like work manuals came in CD ROMs. You can learn new programming languages through programming simulations stored in multiple CDs. Since the broadband connection of the Internet allows for massive file transfers like streaming videos and audio, educators and trainers are not capable of delivering their lectures over the Internet where online learners and trainees can access their content anywhere in the world.

I marvel at this innovation and aim to use the technology even in informal or non traditional learning. Using Google Docs for example, I can collaborate with classmates in different locations through sharing my documents and worksheets. I’ve experienced learning through Moodle, an open source elearning website. Moodle is fully customizable and what’s more amazing is that it’s free for everybody.

The cloud has allowed cost effective training solutions not only for companies but for kids to learn outside the conventional brick and mortar schools. I believe that the future of elearning is already here and in the clouds.