14 Technology Predictions for Higher Education in 2023
"We're in a time where every dollar is being questioned, and institutions are identifying where efficiencies can be gained, and where they might improve profitability. As some universities make these adjustments to meet changing economic pressures, their value proposition for prospective students is evolving. Schools that are focused on development beyond the classroom will be the successful ones in maintaining enrollment. In addition to offering programs like cooperative education, universities need to make clear the results and opportunities they can provide students post-graduation." — Kevin Bresser, vice president of sales for higher education, Syntellis
"Higher ed institutions will double down on their commitment to help students prepare for the changing world of work. We're already seeing both two-year and four-year institutions create new partnerships to both fill gaps in their tech training capacity — and align tech skills training to better meet regional workforce needs. Those sorts of partnerships will only continue to expand in 2023." — Joe Mitchell, COO, SkillStorm
7) Cybersecurity compliance will come into focus for higher education.
"While CIRCIA will not apply to higher ed institutions (yet), the penalties for non-compliance and cyber incidents are likely to increase. Not only that, but institutions that depend on Department of Defense contracts for essential research programs will soon need to show compliance with CMMC. Higher ed institutions should develop a compliance program built on a foundation of objective real-time data that represents the true state of security controls and can serve as a perfect lens for examining the institution's defensive posture and overall maturity state of its security program." — Matt Coose, founder and CEO, Qmulos, and former director of federal network security, National Cyber Security Division, Department of Homeland Security
8) Technology will streamline globalization and increase access.
"In 2023, we'll see more college and university leaders focus on globalization and the technology needed to manage international education processes across multiple departments for greater visibility and inclusion. The goal is to give staff more time to advise students and create more accessible programs for underrepresented students, so they too can be equipped with the skills and experiences needed to compete in a global workplace. This comes from an increased interest in driving internationalization and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives as students' interest in becoming global citizens and engaging with other cultures grows. The technology being leveraged may include using critical reporting to identify and reach first-generation students or to provide greater support for international students on campus to help ensure student engagement and retention. By broadening international enrollment and study abroad opportunities to more diverse populations, schools will help create a more globalized and tolerant world." — Anthony Rotoli, CEO, Terra Dotta
"It's clear that technology will continue to be a major factor in increasing access and opportunity for learners. We've already witnessed higher education institutions using tech-driven systems as a way to promote fairness and equity among those with disabilities, and this emphasis on digital learning is only expected to grow further. In addition, educational institutions are making bold moves to leverage the power of data. With improved tracking flows, educators can save time and enhance their teaching methods while helping support equality in education. These processes enable instructors to identify students who may be at risk before it is too late, giving them the opportunity to provide crucial assistance when needed most. And lastly, as we embark on this new year and a fresh start, the educational landscape is transforming with innovative models that are becoming more accessible to learners in all corners of the world. Flexible education options such as online and asynchronous learning provide students with viable opportunities for gaining knowledge — leading us into an era where access knows no boundaries." — Dr. Cristi Ford, vice president of academic affairs, D2L