A knowledge-as-a-service support framework for ambient learning in Kenya

Abstract

Knowledge as a Service (KaaS) is a relatively new model, albeit one that is rapidly gaining popularity within cloud computing environments. Over the recent years, learners have experienced a constant need to access on demand knowledge that is fully aligned with the paradigm of cloud computing. This need stems from the knowledge that users will be able to access applications and the information therein on demand, without the restrictions that are usually imposed by time and space. The KaaS model terms knowledge as the understanding of information based on its relevance to a specific context and problem area, thus forming a valuable resource for the human decision-making process. As motivated by the global sustainable development goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education to promote learning opportunities for all, this research has developed a framework that is hinged on KaaS and utilizes knowledge from ambient learning systems. The main aim is to provide a platform for disseminating and exploiting the available knowledge to aid the learning process and, thus, to improve the quality of education on the ambient learning system. The research further explores how collaborative effort can be used to form a knowledge network that allows access to heterogeneous sources of knowledge. The research outcomes will benefit knowledge consumers such as the developers of ambient learning systems.