Cloud Computing and Google For Education

Cloud computing is a concept which is used to describe a large system of computers which are connected to each other through a real-time communication, when there is the chance to run a program in different computers at the same time. In this case the real server hardware is replaced by a virtual hardware, which does not physically exist and therefore can be moved around like a cloud.
In fact, cloud computing changes our work as teachers. It mainly affects on our work positively, but, of course, it also has some drawbacks. Due to cloud computing we can create one document and have multiple users in it, thus, fostering collaboration between the learners. Besides, with the help of cloud computing, we do less downloading. We just log in to different softwares and start using them. Thus, it is more economical in terms of the software and hardware. Moreover, there is no need for big IT teams for schools or other educational institutions. However, cloud computing makes us be too internet-dependent, as because of different reasons when there is an internet connection breakdown, all the system connected computers can't have internet access. There might be also some issues connected with the privacy or confidentiality of the data stored in the cloud. When it comes to Google for education, it has different applications which can be used by teachers. Some of them are really good for creating a collaborative platform, where the learners can learn in an interactive way, such as Google drive and Google sites, Blogger. Other applications can also be helpful, such as Google book search, Google Sky, Google Calendar, etc.

More information is available via this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88ysB-EKA9U