Annotated+Research+Articles

Return to Resource Page

Blue, E., & Tirotta, R. (2011, May/June). The benefits & drawbacks of integrating cloud computing and interactive whiteboards in teacher preparation. //TechTrends, 55//(3), 31-40. doi: 10.1007/s11528-011-0495-7

In this qualitative study, the authors summarize data gathered in observations, discussions which occurred in focus group settings, and direct conversations with participants of the year-long study analyzing technology integration into graduate level studies. This study describes the contexts for a variety of integrations, as well as the benefits and challenges faced during implementation. The researchers focus on three aspects of cloud computing; social networking tools, collaborative writing tools, and interactive whiteboards. In their discussion of findings, they make suggestions for supporting users during the integration of cloud computing tools, suggestions to challenge more advanced cloud computing users, as well as suggestions to support diverse learners.

Han, Y. (2010). On the clouds: A new way of computing. //Information Technology and Libraries,// //29//(2), 87-92. Retrieved from []

In this article, Han gives an overview of cloud computing and discusses advantages and disadvantages of the system. He gives examples for, and evaluates, the use of cloud computing within a business and a library environment. This article would be helpful to a reader wanting a genearl overview of the subject without a direct concentration on the field of education.

Katzan Jr., H. (2010). The education value of cloud computing. //Contemporary Issues in Education Research, 3//(7). 37-42. Retrieved from []

Harry Katzan’s research looks at the value of using cloud computing in education. Katzan begins with some background information on the characteristics of cloud computing is and how it can be used in education. He continues with a description of the three layers of the cloud service model (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS). The article would be beneficial to educators looking for more information on exactly how cloud computing works.

Nevin, R. (2009). Supporting 21st century learning through google apps. //Teacher Librarian, 37//(2), 35-38. Retrieved from []

Roger Nevin's research article describes various ways that Teacher-Librarians can incorporate technology learning tools into their library at a very low cost by using cloud computing. He explains a pilot project he undertook using Google Apps and mentions the advantages, challenges and uses that one can experience when using cloud computing and Google Apps in the library. This article is directed towards teacher-librarians, but other educators would find use in it as well.

Sultan, N. (2010). Cloud computing for education: A new dawn?. // International Journal of Information Management, 30, // 109-116. doi:10.1016/j.ijinformgt.2009.09.004

Nabil Sultan's article describes the ways in which large and small businesses have already taken advantage of the benefits of cloud computing and explains how the educational system will likely move toward this model. The article starts with a brief overview of cloud computing before moving on to discussing how cost saving measures may be the biggest reason for educational organizations to move toward the cloud. A case study from the UK is offered as an example of the effectiveness of adopting the cloud in education. The article ends with a look at the benefits and concerns to cloud computing in education. The article would be most helpful for administrators and policy makers in deciding whether the cloud is right for their school or district.

Thomas, P. Y. (2011). Cloud computing. //The Electronic Library,// //29//(2), 214-224. doi:10.1108/02640471111125177

In this study, Thomas examines the possibilites of using cloud computing in education. He focuses on Google Apps for Education and Microsoft SkyDrive and the role they can play in the classroom. He makes the point that teaching can move from a private setting to a peer-based setting. Educators from all streams interested in learning more about cloud computing would find use in this article.