Since the pandemic, colleges and universities have transitioned to remote learning. There is also a growing need for educational technology resources for teachers. These challenges have created a demand for all-in-one cloud communications platforms.
The cloud is a great solution for many small businesses, especially higher education. Cloud-based platforms offer remote flexibility, user-friendliness, and several useful functions. Here are some common ways colleges and universities can use cloud-based unified communications.
1.VoIP Phone Systems
VoIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol and refers to any phone call made over the Internet. VoIP phone systems can be compatible with cellular and online phones. This makes it so a personal cell phone can dial into a voice or video meeting using an app or their work number or work login, allowing for accessibility for collaborators on the go.
Here's a real-world example. If a professor has remote office hours, students can call their VoIP phone number for remote help. This is also useful for busy staff and administration, allowing them more availability as they travel across campus.
To see a detailed comparison of VoIP vs PBX phone systems, read our blog: Cloud Based Vs On-Premises PBX Phone Systems For Small Business.
2. Videoconferencing for Remote Lectures
Video conferencing in education has been a popular solution since the pandemic, but it goes further than preventing the spread of viruses. The benefits of video conferencing for education include:
- Accessibility for remote or overseas students
- Quality resources for students from meeting recordings
- Face-to-face capability to enhance the quality of interactions and engagement
- Real-time content sharing
- Enhanced learning opportunities from worldwide guest speakers
The benefits of unified communications don’t end there. Allowing students and faculty to virtually collaborate can take down educational barriers. These may be due to travel, weather, and other location-centered roadblocks. This can also accommodate students with jobs, children, and other outside responsibilities.
3. Instant Messaging and Call Recording
It’s a common sentiment that some collaborators have preferred methods of communication. Cloud-based platforms can be more comfortable to use for some because of this.
Some people prefer to send instant messages than call to ask for help. This can mean the difference between a student asking for help and avoiding it altogether. It also allows for more accessibility for students who struggle with phone calls due to language or hearing barriers.
Other cloud features that can simplify learning are call recording and voicemail functions. Call recording will allow students to catch up on recorded lessons and refer to them as they study.
4. Data Storage & Security
Data storage is a necessity for higher education, both with instruction and administration. With so much data to store and protect, cloud solutions can offer strong backups to prevent data loss.
Data protection is crucial as new cyberattacks are reported every year. With on-premises communications, an IT team would be solely responsible for protecting data. Cloud platforms, on the other hand, come with data security functions built in. These might include:
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Encryption
- Strong password requirements and resets
To learn more about cybersecurity and data loss, read our blog: Top 3 Human Errors That Lead to Cyber Attacks.
5. Resource Sharing to Reduce Textbook Costs/Environmental Impact
With rising textbook costs, online file sharing can make a big difference. Cloud file-sharing services like Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox are great examples. Professors can add materials to one hub for students to access and study, increasing accessibility. Otherwise, students may have to pay hundreds of dollars or join waitlists for campus bookstores to restock their materials.
This can help students who can’t afford expensive materials. It also simplifies content sharing with remote students to use during lectures. As another benefit, cloud file sharing as a substitute for textbooks offers sustainability. Even with buyback programs, textbooks may still get thrown out after the semester. Cloud file sharing can also reduce waste since professors can reuse digital materials for future courses.
What are the Most Popular Cloud-Based Programs Used In Education?
You may be wondering, what cloud-based programs are other colleges and universities using? Some of the most popular platforms are Zoom and Microsoft 365. There are, however, countless options on the market.
For example, Google Suite is a popular option for many institutions. This may be due to the many applications that allow for seamless collaboration. There may be some cybersecurity issues for this option, though. This is why it's so crucial to thoroughly research unified communications tools beforehand. To find out which platform is right for you, read our article: Top Video Conference Platforms For Small Institutions.
How to Find the Best Cloud Solution for Your School
Determining which cloud platform is right for your needs can be overwhelming. Tiered pricing will include different tools, meeting capacities, data storage limits, and more. Read about video conference pricing in our blog: What is the Cost of a Video Conferencing System?
Several platforms are circulating the market. Because of this, it's wise to seek out a managed communications team to set yourself up for success. A quality provider will help you migrate to the cloud, and set up any video conferencing hardware needed.
Are you ready to upgrade your institution to modern learning and collaboration? Click the button below to speak to a managed communications expert.
