Performance evaluation for the design of a hybrid cloud based distance synchronous and asynchronous learning...

Area of Science:

• Computer Science
• Information Technology
• Education Technology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic forced educational institutions globally to rapidly transition to online lectures and services.
• The urgent shift led to widespread use of public online platforms, often overlooking critical privacy, security, and intellectual property issues.
• Implementing distance learning via private platforms brought attention to a range of challenges requiring robust solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a modeling and evaluation framework for designing effective distance learning architectures.
• To assist decision-makers in assessing the requirements and costs associated with hybrid cloud technology solutions.
• To propose an integrated, low-cost, long-term storage management system for accessible educational content archiving.

Main Methods:

• Development of a framework based on high-level, management-oriented parameters.
• Application of a Vectorial Auto Regressive Fractional (Integrated) Moving Average (VARIMA) based approach for modeling and evaluation.
• Design tailored to the Italian university ecosystem, including a case study from a major Italian university.

Main Results:

• The framework provides a structured approach to evaluating distance learning solutions.
• It enables informed decision-making regarding hybrid cloud adoption for educational institutions.
• The proposed storage management strategy offers a viable and accessible method for preserving educational materials.

Conclusions:

• The developed framework supports the strategic design of distance learning architectures.
• It addresses the need for secure, privacy-conscious, and legally compliant online education solutions.
• The study offers a practical model for Italian universities seeking to optimize their digital learning infrastructure.