Enhancing sustainable development in education: Reality of cloud computing applications in activating e-learning at King Faisal University

Abstract

After the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world turned towards intensifying the implementation of modern educational technologies in general, especially those related to remote teaching and learning. These technologies have proven to save learners considerable time and effort, particularly in emergencies that necessitate a shift from traditional to remote education systems. They offer easy and secure methods for remote teaching and learning. One of the most significant modern technologies in this context is cloud computing, a term that refers to on-demand access to computer resources and systems over the network. Cloud computing can deliver a range of integrated computer services without being constrained by local resources, aiming to facilitate user interaction. The successful use and integration of cloud computing applications in educational institutions are key indicators of achieving outstanding educational quality. This includes attaining the highest possible levels of sustainable development competencies in education. The effectiveness of utilizing these applications is contingent upon the proper management of educational technology applications and their flexible and rapid activation from any location through the Internet. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the current utilization and deployment of cloud computing applications in activating e-learning at King Faisal University and provide insight into realizing the desired outcomes of implementing one of the most crucial e-learning technologies as a means of achieving sustainable development in education. This was accomplished by identifying the problems and challenges facing the use and deployment of this technology in educational institutions in the Kingdom, specifically at King Faisal University. Additionally, the study aimed to propose ways to enhance the utilization of certain applications utilizing this technology in e-learning within educational institutions.