E-learning to m-learning: framework for data protection and security in cloud infrastructure

In recent years, the advancement in internet technologies has greatly altered the learning landscape, thus, a shift from traditional methods of learning to internet based learning platforms. E-learning, m-learning and cloud are some of the most powerful responses to these growing technological shift by the education sectors. Their impact and benefits cannot be over-emphasized with regard to making learning accessible, affordable, available and convenient. In addition, the use of cloud technology has made the world of education more integrated, networked and composite. This makes e-learning and m-learning as highly effective as the conventional method of learning delivery. However, despite these advantages, the security and the protection of learners’ data on this cloud platform have been some of the major challenges to m-learning effective implementation and use. This paper discusses the various benefits of the using m-learning platform and cloud infrastructure in higher education. It also examines the vulnerabilities of the platform as well as other security and privacy challenges regarding the effective implementation of m-learning in cloud infrastructure environment. Finally, it proposes a detailed data protection and security framework that is needed for addressing these issues. It is expected that the proposed framework when fully implemented, will bring about necessary solution to issues relating to the security and data protection of m-learners in cloud computing environment, increase trust in the use of the system as well as enhance the m-learning platforms.