The Cloud: How it actually works & How to use it within the classroom: By: Michael Wright
A little bit of an exaggeration but cloud computing enables you to access all your information whenever you need it when you tap into the internet.
So, what exactly is Cloud Computing?
Cloud Computing is a collection of servers, software platforms, applications, and storage. This system is a two way system that enables the individuals to access data, files, applications, and programs from virtually anywhere there is access to the internet. Whether it be WiFi, VPN (Virtual Private Network), or LAN (Local Area Connect).
The two way system is controlled by system administrators that control access to the cloud network and the end user or consumer accesses the cloud through various methods usually protected by safeguards and passwords to keep all data secure.
So, there are multiple clouds?
Public Clouds- Is a cloud where the user had no administrative access to the cloud but share resources
Private Clouds- Is a cloud used by a single organization that only provides access to the who the company or organization wants to have access to.
Hybrid Clouds- is a combination of the above clouds where some cloud computing is public but also parts are secured to only some users.
So, how do I access the cloud?
The Cloud can be accessed by a router that provides direct connection to the internet and/or a wireless connection that also enables the user to access the cloud. Furthermore, if many PC's need to be connected on the same network without WiFi a switch is needed to hard-line or access the LAN. A switch enables 5+ PC's to be directly plugged into a network to access the cloud.
Ok, So, What is the cloud?
The cloud is a mass facility of servers that stores, encrypts, safeguards, and allows access to users connected to the internet. These facilities are so big they have multiple levels of security built in to make sure all data is safe from external extraction. There are multiple data centers spread across the globe. Interactive Map
So, What are common clouds that I know about but did not know they were clouds?
Some of the leaders in cloud computing come from social media, Google, Springboard, Blackboard, YouTube, and so many more. Think about all the places you go online a post documents, pictures, videos, etc... Each of these are part of cloud computing. They systems are controlled by highly trained system administrators that enable the end user to access data from anywhere there is a internet connection. Whether you are posting videos to YouTube or working on collaborative documents on Google you are accessing a cloud.
So, How do I use it in the classroom?
Google Apps for education is one of the leading contenders for the cloud computing market. The infrastructure that Google has developed allows users to create, collaborate, store, and access data from virtually anywhere as long as there is a internet connection. So how do you use it in the classroom? In the classroom, specifically using the Google platform the teachers can use Google classroom to post all instructional materials that been used that day giving students 24/7 access to the data. As assignments are posted students can use word processors, spreadsheets, presentations, video editing, image editing, data collectors, and countless other applications to create materials or artifacts needed for classroom assignments. These artifacts can be collaboratively created and edited by other students and teachers alike as ling as the access is given. All of the data created is stored into a drive easily accessible by the students and teachers. The following videos give you insight into the data centers that are working behind the scenes and a look at how Google enables users to create, store, and collaborate on materials stored on the cloud.
For more uses on Google Apps for Education check out my site iteach-google.com
ISTE/NETS for Teachers
1. Facilitate and inspire student learning and creativity Teachers use their knowledge of subject matter, teaching and learning, and technology to facilitate experiences that advance student learning, creativity, and innovation in both face-to-face and virtual environments.
2. Design and develop digital age learning experiences and assessments Teachers design, develop, and evaluate authentic learning experiences and assessments incorporating contemporary tools and resources to maximize content learning in context and to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes identified in the Standards•S.
3. Model digital age work and learning Teachers exhibit knowledge, skills, and work processes representative of an innovative professional in a global and digital society.
ISTE/NETS for Students
1. Creativity and innovation Students demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, and develop innovative products and processes using technology.
2. Communication and collaboration Students use digital media and environments to communicate and work collaboratively, including at a distance, to support individual learning and contribute to the learning of others.
3. Research and information fluency Students apply digital tools to gather, evaluate, and use information.
4. Critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making Students use critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems, and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools and resources.
6. Technology operations and concepts Students demonstrate a sound understanding of technology concepts, systems, and operations.
The Cloud: How it actually works & How to use it within the classroom: By: Michael Wright
A little bit of an exaggeration but cloud computing enables you to access all your information whenever you need it when you tap into the internet.
So, what exactly is Cloud Computing?
Cloud Computing is a collection of servers, software platforms, applications, and storage. This system is a two way system that enables the individuals to access data, files, applications, and programs from virtually anywhere there is access to the internet. Whether it be WiFi, VPN (Virtual Private Network), or LAN (Local Area Connect).
The two way system is controlled by system administrators that control access to the cloud network and the end user or consumer accesses the cloud through various methods usually protected by safeguards and passwords to keep all data secure.
So, there are multiple clouds?
Public Clouds- Is a cloud where the user had no administrative access to the cloud but share resources
Private Clouds- Is a cloud used by a single organization that only provides access to the who the company or organization wants to have access to.
Hybrid Clouds- is a combination of the above clouds where some cloud computing is public but also parts are secured to only some users.
So, how do I access the cloud?
The Cloud can be accessed by a router that provides direct connection to the internet and/or a wireless connection that also enables the user to access the cloud. Furthermore, if many PC's need to be connected on the same network without WiFi a switch is needed to hard-line or access the LAN. A switch enables 5+ PC's to be directly plugged into a network to access the cloud.
Ok, So, What is the cloud?
The cloud is a mass facility of servers that stores, encrypts, safeguards, and allows access to users connected to the internet. These facilities are so big they have multiple levels of security built in to make sure all data is safe from external extraction. There are multiple data centers spread across the globe. Interactive Map
So, What are common clouds that I know about but did not know they were clouds?
Some of the leaders in cloud computing come from social media, Google, Springboard, Blackboard, YouTube, and so many more. Think about all the places you go online a post documents, pictures, videos, etc... Each of these are part of cloud computing. They systems are controlled by highly trained system administrators that enable the end user to access data from anywhere there is a internet connection. Whether you are posting videos to YouTube or working on collaborative documents on Google you are accessing a cloud.
So, How do I use it in the classroom?
Google Apps for education is one of the leading contenders for the cloud computing market. The infrastructure that Google has developed allows users to create, collaborate, store, and access data from virtually anywhere as long as there is a internet connection. So how do you use it in the classroom? In the classroom, specifically using the Google platform the teachers can use Google classroom to post all instructional materials that been used that day giving students 24/7 access to the data. As assignments are posted students can use word processors, spreadsheets, presentations, video editing, image editing, data collectors, and countless other applications to create materials or artifacts needed for classroom assignments. These artifacts can be collaboratively created and edited by other students and teachers alike as ling as the access is given. All of the data created is stored into a drive easily accessible by the students and teachers. The following videos give you insight into the data centers that are working behind the scenes and a look at how Google enables users to create, store, and collaborate on materials stored on the cloud.
For more uses on Google Apps for Education check out my site iteach-google.com
ISTE/NETS for Teachers
1. Facilitate and inspire student learning and creativity Teachers use their knowledge of subject matter, teaching and learning, and technology to facilitate experiences that advance student learning, creativity, and innovation in both face-to-face and virtual environments.
2. Design and develop digital age learning experiences and assessments Teachers design, develop, and evaluate authentic learning experiences and assessments incorporating contemporary tools and resources to maximize content learning in context and to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes identified in the Standards•S.
3. Model digital age work and learning Teachers exhibit knowledge, skills, and work processes representative of an innovative professional in a global and digital society.
ISTE/NETS for Students
1. Creativity and innovation Students demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, and develop innovative products and processes using technology.
2. Communication and collaboration Students use digital media and environments to communicate and work collaboratively, including at a distance, to support individual learning and contribute to the learning of others.
3. Research and information fluency Students apply digital tools to gather, evaluate, and use information.
4. Critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making Students use critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems, and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools and resources.
6. Technology operations and concepts Students demonstrate a sound understanding of technology concepts, systems, and operations.
Additional Resources