GENESIS AND CURRENT STATE OF THE USE OF CLOUD TECHNOLOGIES IN EDUCATION

Abstract

The article examines the genesis and current state of cloud technologies in education within the context of global digitalization processes that are transforming the architecture of modern educational environments. The study aims to analyze the evolution of cloud computing and to identify the key stages and models of its implementation in the educational process. The research is based on a theoretical analysis of scientific, pedagogical, and technical sources, as well as a systematization of approaches to the development of cloud-based solutions. The findings demonstrate that cloud technologies have evolved from early concepts of shared computing resources and centralized systems to distributed infrastructures and complex digital ecosystems. Four main stages of cloud technology integration into education are identified, ranging from isolated local systems to fully developed cloud-oriented educational environments. Particular attention is paid to the role of service models such as Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), which enable flexibility, scalability, and accessibility of educational resources. The study highlights that modern cloud platforms support not only content delivery but also collaborative learning, data analytics, adaptive learning systems, and virtual laboratories. It is concluded that cloud technologies serve as a key instrument for enhancing the efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability of the educational process, contributing to the formation of an open and integrated digital educational space.