In 2023, Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities have access to fast internet connectivity and data storage thanks to edge computing. Edge computing brings high-performance computing power right to where the action is and is a huge advantage for time-sensitive applications. As the education sector learns to leverage the power of edge computing, this could have profound implications in Indian rural classrooms.
Edtech and edge computing can give classroom learning a boost in a variety of ways. Not only do they make world-class lessons given by lecturers from around the country accessible, they also enable learning with augmented and virtual reality, which is becoming popular in schools. Edge computing could also power learning systems designed to enhance performance like machine learning and artificial intelligence – these can react based on inputs from students, by adjusting prompts and learning to reflect the student’s style.
The benefits of edge computing for schools
The clearest benefit to classrooms is that of fast and reliable connectivity. Because data has a shorter distance to travel from the source to the edge, users enjoy better network speed and performance via reduced latency. A reason why edge computing wields so much potential. Moreover, edge computing helps with AR and VR applications for experiments and more in the classroom, both of which require powerful connectivity to work seamlessly. In schools, the application of edge technology or Edtech will mean that students and teachers can easily access the information and applications they need to learn, teach and conduct research.
Edge computing also ensures resiliency as it shifts access to data and applications away from dependence on a central data centre. Which means one breakdown at the edge does not disrupt the whole network, ensuring continuity for educational institutions in times of network issues.
Another advantage of Edge computing is better connected devices in schools – something previously unheard of in rural areas. The use of devices in schools in India continues to grow, along with the ‘gamification’ of education. As more devices enter schools, it is faster and more efficient to process data on the edge.
The Future of Education
Edge computing enables a layer of interaction with screens and AR and VR labs, as opposed to textbooks and blackboards. This fosters deeper understanding and retention and students are immersed into the worlds they are learning about. While machine learning can help track and monitor students, logging areas where they struggle or excel and augment online classes to close gaps in learning as well as suggest suitable lessons tailored to their needs. With edge computing…the possibilities are endless.
The author is Mr. Mukundan Raghavan – CTO and CFO, Varanium Cloud, and the views expressed in this article are his own)
