Parallel and Distributed Computing Related Issues in Education

The advancements in computer technology -rapid processors, rapid graphic, and cheaper memory, promote the evolution towards parallel and distributed computing environments. In recent years, parallel processing and distributed computing is attracting a lot of attention in education field. In this paper, the author will describe several issues or research activities that have been carried out in education field, which relates to distributed and parallel computing. This paper will highlight the effort taken by several educational institutions to move towards parallel or distributed computing environment and pointing out the need for this evolution. In addition to that, research work from several researchers on effective way of teaching distributed & parallel computing related courses will be presented. The paper will also discuss tools/courseware used in distance education and describe the use of an evolutionary learning method (SQ3R) in distance education. Finally, research work on designing, development and implementation of web-based education, real-time education, and multimedia-based education will be discussed. It is obvious that by utilizing the parallel & distributed computing technology, we can enhance our education system in various aspects (speed, quality of contents, presentation styles etc). It benefits both the educators and the learners by supporting a wide range of educational modes of learning (including virtual learning environment and web-based courseware), and by allowing the sharing of knowledge and learning resources.