Higher Education Systems and Institutions, Sultanate of Oman

Cloud computing virtual learning environment: issues and challenges

“…Recently, most HEIs integrated the VLE into their educational system to support learning effectiveness and overcome the old traditional educational platforms' challenges [4]- [6]. Unfortunately, several researchers indicated challenges facing the VLE, such as the lack of training [7]- [9], lack of knowledge sharing and support [7] and managing available resources and costs, along with the needed technicians required for effective VLE management, Previous challenges arose from the unexpected growth of services, users' demands, and networking [10]. However, to enhance the available learning platforms, HEIs are seeking to employ the latest technological advancements [11].…”

“…Thus, cloud computing (CC) came to cope with the rising demand for a reliable, higher performance, and cost-effective technology supporting the educational system [10]. Also, CC increases the effectiveness and efficiency of VLE and collaborative learning [7], [12], as gaining knowledge occurs on the cloud instead of the learner's computing devices [8]. Furthermore, CC offers massive data centers to utilize resources between HEIs via hosted applications [7] leading to an  ISSN: 2502-4752 Indonesian J Elec Eng & Comp Sci, Vol.…”

“…Also, CC increases the effectiveness and efficiency of VLE and collaborative learning [7], [12], as gaining knowledge occurs on the cloud instead of the learner's computing devices [8]. Furthermore, CC offers massive data centers to utilize resources between HEIs via hosted applications [7] leading to an  ISSN: 2502-4752 Indonesian J Elec Eng & Comp Sci, Vol. 30, No.…”

“…Therefore, researchers divided CC into services and deployment models [14]. Service model layers are infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and software as a service (SaaS) [7], [12]. On the other hand, deployment models are four types: private cloud, public cloud, community cloud, and hybrid cloud [7], [13].…”

“…Moreover, Aldoayan et al [15], highlighted challenges such as cultural influences, academic staff, student experience, financial aspects, and learning resources. Similarly, AlHajri [7] studied the Omani context in adopting technologies and concluded the need for more training while using technology significantly since cultural factors could affect the efficiency of the adoption process. Also, Hofstede [24] emphasized that any system designed for one culture may not be suitable for any other.…”