Since the pandemic, technology has dramatically transformed higher education, with both students and faculty excited about new ways of learning and teaching. Offering connectivity in more ways and granting seamless access are just two of the ways faculties are embracing this new power. However, many institutions still need more support to fully take advantage of these innovations.
This blog explores how education technology (Edtech) is reshaping higher education, the benefits experienced so far, and the challenges that remain. From the boom of AI integration to the much-anticipated arrival of VR into the classroom, we will cover it all
A Boom in Edtech Since the Pandemic
The days of video calling classrooms from home may already feel like ancient history, but the changes it brought to education are here to stay. The widespread use of video calling for remote classrooms was only the beginning. The Edtech sector experienced a significant boom, with many new technologies implemented to enhance both online and in-person learning. This shift aimed to offer more interactivity and a hybrid model of education, blending digital and physical environments.
A 2021 McKinsey study surveyed 600 faculty members and 800 students from public and private colleges and universities across the US. The study identified eight key factors that effectively engage students:
- A clear education roadmap
- Seamless access to classes and learning resources
- Diverse learning formats, with interaction and peer assessments
- Captivating, up-to-date content
- Adaptive learning, for exam practice and real-time feedback
- Opportunities for real-world skills application
- Timely support for both academic and non-academic issues
- A strong community, including the ability to make friends online
These factors reflect the shift toward a more immersive and personalised learning experience. In an ideal world, universal uptake and implementation of these elements would improve grades and the student experience no end, but this isn’t so easy in reality.
AI, AR, and VR Leading the Way
Among the technologies gaining popularity in education are AI-driven tools and immersive Augmented Reality (AR)/Virtual Reality (VR) experiences. AI adaptive course delivery and machine learning are particularly helpful in student engagement. Adaptive AI-powered chatbots and course delivery apps can answer questions, create tests, and customise lessons based on a student’s progress, helping individuals learn at their own pace. Augmented reality and virtual reality have also added immense value, providing interactive simulations that create more captivating learning experiences.
In the McKinsey study, there was a 19% average increase in the use of such technologies since the pandemic’s onset, with community building and group work tools seeing the biggest uptake (49%), followed by group work tools (29%). This increase suggests that these technologies are filling the void left by a lack of in-person experiences. Since the return to in-person classes, 67% of respondents said they still use tools like real-time chatting, polling, and breakout room discussions in the classroom.
Student and Faculty Perspectives
The shift toward more interactive and diverse learning models is likely to continue. Many universities have continued investing in new technologies to expand their online and hybrid programs. Over 60% of students stated that all the learning technologies they had used since the onset of the pandemic had improved their learning and grades. The most effective technologies were classroom exercises (80%) and AI-powered teaching assistants (71%).
While students are excited about entertainment-driven tools like AR/VR—nearly 90% anticipate these making learning more enjoyable—they are less confident in their ability to improve learning outcomes (just 5%). However, research has suggested that integrating VR into subjects requiring spatial or conceptual understanding can lead to an average test score increase of 15-30%. The biggest barrier, however, is the challenge of accessibility and inclusivity of these technologies.
Interestingly, faculty members are even more enthusiastic than students about the use of technology in education. Faculty found that these tools enhanced ease of use, engagement, access to resources, and connectivity between instructors and students. Nearly double the number of faculty members expressed excitement for AR/VR in the classroom compared to students. The perceived return on investment from these learning technologies has been overwhelmingly positive, with approval ratings of over 80% for all core principles of effective learning.
Barriers to Adoption
Despite enthusiasm, challenges to widespread adoption of Edtech tools persist. The top barriers include lack of awareness (43%), lack of capability to deploy the technology (36%), and cost (33%). Faculty training and overall digital literacy gaps have also emerged as obstacles, with some instructors still preferring traditional content delivery methods over newer, tech-heavy approaches. Digital literacy gaps have widened since the pandemic forced the adoption of many new technology solutions, deepening a divide between more tech-savvy educators and those who prefer tried and tested approaches.
To ensure effective implementation, institutions must focus on providing support, training, and fostering understanding amongst faculty members. Encouraging a shared vision for how technology can benefit students, rather than imposing changes, is key to driving successful adoption. Similarly, any educational facility must consider student access to technology to ensure inclusivity.
A Collaborative Path Forward
The pandemic was a wake up call for educational institutions to rethink their teaching approaches, and many have risen to the challenge by integrating technology in meaningful ways. With support and training for faculty, as well as careful consideration of student access to technology, higher education can fully harness the potential of Edtech to create more engaging, efficient, and effective learning experiences for all.
The future of AI and immersive technology in education holds incredible promise. By bridging the gap between traditional teaching and innovative technology, we can help students and educators thrive in an increasingly digital world. While there will always be challenges in adoption, a collaborative and supportive approach is key to ensuring that both students and educators reap the benefits of technology-driven education.
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