The increasing demand for effective distance education calls for robust and reliable online learning platforms. Qualifications-Based Learning (QBL) extends competency-based education by requiring learners to achieve Competency Qualifications (CQs), which are offered by accredited institutions. However, former prototypical implementations of QBL led to the development of the Qualifications-Based Learning Model (QBLM). These implementations were based on monolithic, single-server architectures, which limited scalability and flexibility. The tight coupling of components restricted both the extension of new features and the efficient provisioning of QBL.

To overcome the limitations, a cloud-based, containerized software platform that provides on-demand features of QBLM components is required. Therefore, the existing prototypical implementation has to be migrated into a modern digital ecosystem that leverages state-of-the-art technologies.

Following Nunamaker’s multi-method methodology, the paper first observes state-of-the-art technologies and existing implementations, then conceptualizes a cloud-based approach, implements the prototypical migration of QBLM into a cloud-based environment, and evaluates its functionality.

The resulting postulated software platform encapsulates QBLM services (e.g., course authoring, competence management) as independent containerized microservices, orchestrated in the cloud to ensure scalability and interoperability.

The paper demonstrates that on-demand container provisioning not only resolves technical challenges such as decoupling, resource isolation, and scalability but also offers significant educational benefits. First, learners gain immediate and resilient access to required learning tools without setup barriers, thanks to scalability and on-demand provisioning of services. Additionally, instructors and organizations benefit from stable, low-maintenance environments, because of externalized IT infrastructure.

Initial evaluations indicate positive outcomes, suggesting that a containerized software platform can enhance learner engagement and achievement in distance education. This paper proves the feasibility of implementing QBLM as a cloud-based software platform. The successful migration of the prototypical implementation validates the concept. Therefore, the migration of additional microservices and the development of a modular, extensible cloud environment to serve the software platform can follow.

Keywords: Qualifications-Based Learning, QBLM, distance education, cloud computing, containerization, microservices, scalability, competency-based learning, on-demand, educational technology, learning platforms, modular architecture, software.