Cloud-based technologies have become increasingly more important in education with the pandemic creating a need for a virtual classroom. Now, with the help of the cloud, students across the globe can continue with lessons remotely. With instant access to content, there’s no limit to where or when learning can take place. Cloud has provided a platform for attending virtual classes, accessing learning materials and assignments, and real-time project collaboration, while improving student-teacher interaction. Teachers can grade assignments on the spot and give students faster feedback. Plus, they can also monitor students’ progress live and keep parents and guardians better informed of their child’s performance.

While the advantages of cloud computing in education are not new, COVID-19 accelerated the need for learning institutions to adopt the technology and transition to online learning. As more schools move to the cloud post-COVID, they will need a cloud solutions provider to enable a smooth transition.

Here’s how ASUS can help schools reap the benefits of cloud computing:

The advantages of moving to the cloud with ASUS

A complete solution
We understand that the right device with the right computing power shapes the user experience for educators and students. That’s why we have designed our Windows laptops and Chromebooks to be suitable for cloud-based learning. Our laptops are cloud-compatible for the classroom, as well. They’re designed to work seamlessly with third party apps and cloud services such as Google Workspace for Education and Microsoft Teams. This gives students and teachers easy access to resources to enrich students’ learning through a wide selection of apps, activities, lesson plans, games – even virtual field trips.

Schools looking for a cloud infrastructure platform can consider ASUS hybrid cloud solutions. The ASUS hybrid cloud server enables schools to replicate and protect on-premises workloads to reduce data storage costs. ASUS hybrid cloud solution also gives schools the flexibility to reallocate their IT resources as their needs change, reducing costs. The bonus: schools can tap the benefits of private and public cloud, allowing them to move at their own pace. Importantly, schools stand to enjoy long-term cost-savings with ASUS hybrid cloud solutions.

Exclusively designed for learners
More than anything, ASUS Chromebooks are exclusively designed for learners. Every Chromebook is built with student-centric features and equipped with everything needed to deliver an enjoyable learning experience at all levels. ASUS Chromebooks are also constructed with a protective chassis to withstand the hard knocks and rigors of everyday use, and are equipped with WiFi 6 and LTE for high-speed connectivity. ASUS Chromebooks are also easy to maintain, as they’re built with modular parts that can be easily replaced onsite.

Supports 1:1 learning
The affordability of ASUS Chromebooks makes it possible for schools to move towards a one-student-per-device approach. Not only does this enable schools to personalize learning for each student, it creates a sense of equality in the classroom. Regardless of their background, students can have equal access to the technology and learning resources they need for a quality education.

However, implementing a one-student-per-device model can be resource-intensive. As the 1:1 mobile learning initiative gains momentum, demand for devices will increase, along with resources for running 1:1 operations smoothly.

Here’s where ASUS can help.

ASUS cloud-based devices are ready to use straight out of the box with zero-touch enrolment for Chromebook and Autopilot for Windows laptop. When you’re deploying devices for every student in the school, a simple and fuss-free device set-up can make a world of difference.

What’s more, our devices can be managed and controlled remotely to ensure device use is aligned with the school's IT policies. For instance, IT administrators can monitor students’ computer use when they’re at home, to ensure they’re not accessing illicit content. Sophisticated cloud-based management tools are also available to help schools monitor clouds and servers to ensure security and data privacy.

Preparing schools for the metaverse
Soon, the metaverse will start shaping students’ learning experience. Learning will happen in the space where the virtual world meets the real one – the Eduverse. Lessons will involve students exploring virtual worlds through a computer or some wearable technology. We’re already preparing for this metaverse future, working with chip makers Intel and NVDIA to build powerful graphics card technology into our devices. A powerful graphics card provides the technology to achieve a truly immersive virtual environment, which is a core feature of the metaverse. So when the age of the Eduverse rolls around, we’ll be ready to support schools with the technology they need.

From long-term cost savings to a richer, dynamic learning environment, moving to the cloud offers schools a host of benefits, preparing schools for the future of learning. Delivering a quality learning experience will soon be defined by the technology schools can offer, as the virtual classroom evolves and the Eduverse beckons.

Recommended products for Cloud benefits

ASUS Education BR1100 Windows laptops are available in 11.6-inch clamshell form (BR1100C) for a traditional experience, and a convertible design (BR1100F) that flips to become an 11.6-inch multi-touch tablet. Classrooms are tough and demanding environments, so these models are built to withstand everyday knocks, bumps, drops and spills without serious damage. They also feature AI-powered noise-cancelation technology for clear, focused learning and conferencing, and a noise-reducing camera for superior images.

The 14-inch ASUS Chromebook Flip CX5 (CX5400) with garaged stylus is an ultrathin and lightweight laptop built for a new era of work. The included stylus quickly and automatically charges when garaged — only 15 seconds of charging provides up to 45 minutes of use — keeping it ready for use and providing a safe place to store it. It also features an ErgoLift hinge that automatically tilts the keyboard to the most comfortable typing position.

ASUS CR1100 Chromebook Education-series laptops are available in 11.6-inch clamshell form (CR1100C) for a traditional experience and a convertible design that flips to become an 11.6-inch multi-touch tablet (CR1100F). They are tough and compact, so they’re school-ready for K-12 students. The modular design is easy for IT administrators to quickly service with captive screws to improve servicing efficiency for minimal downtime. Parents and teachers can have peace of mind with military-grade durability that’s able to handle the daily bumps, knocks and drops that occur in class.