Discover the key learnings from a lively discussion with senior leaders in Higher Education, about how modern technologies, including AI, can offer ways to enhance student experiences and institutional success. 

In November, Perlego hosted a Roundtable in partnership with Times Higher Education at Campus Live conference, on the theme of Confronting the future of higher education: challenges and opportunities in an AI-driven world. The group discussed how institutions can adapt to rapid technological advancements, balance innovation with practicality, and enhance student and staff experiences through AI, digital tools, and collaborative strategies.

Nine senior leaders attended from: University College Dublin, University of Chester, Queen Mary University of London, University College Birmingham (UCB), University of Sunderland, University of Birmingham, Open University, University of Aston and University of Worcester.

Here are six key themes addressed during the event, highlighting strategic priority areas for UK HE institutions:

Key Themes

1. Agility and Adaptation in the Digital Age

• Institutions must embrace agility to meet evolving student needs and technological advancements.
• Attendees highlighted the importance of balancing short-term agility with long-term strategic planning.
• The challenge lies in aligning staff, leadership, and student expectations around digital adoption and fostering collaboration.

2. AI and Data: Opportunities and Risks

• AI integration in learning and operations is gaining momentum. Examples include chatbots for student queries, predictive dashboards for early interventions, and personalised learning.
• Institutions are embedding AI across learning outcomes, and it’s key to also address staff concerns in the process. 
• Risks of over-reliance on AI were noted, including ethical concerns, tabloid press controversies (AI misuse fears), and potential plateauing of AI advancements.

3. Empowering Staff and Students Through Training

• Digital transformation requires ongoing staff training. Universities are deploying CPD programs and digital discovery tools to identify champions and areas where more support is needed.
• Staff and students need clear guidance on the purpose and application of AI and digital tools to bridge knowledge gaps and avoid misinterpretations.

4. Innovation in Curriculum Design

• Universities are exploring new models for curriculum delivery, including modular blocks, "Netflix-like" personalised experiences, and hybrid learning environments.
• There’s a growing focus on preparing students for future job markets, particularly in AI-driven fields, while addressing the digital competency gap.

5. Collaboration and Cost Challenges

• Monopolistic pricing from tech providers and the increasing costs of digital transformation were a significant concern.
• Institutions called for sector-wide collaboration to negotiate better pricing, share resources, and create more sustainable models, akin to the NHS’s procurement approach.
• Shared services were a point of debate - they would require thoughtful implementation and governance to avoid inefficiencies.

6. The Evolving Role of the Physical Campus

• The integration of physical and digital spaces was discussed, with examples like virtual open days, hybrid student experience model and a Metaverse campus. 
• Institutions are reimagining campus spaces to reflect changing user needs, balancing the role of physical infrastructure with digital innovations. Consulting students and educators can also help inform this.

Final Thoughts

This Roundtable highlighted how universities plan to proactively shape the conversation around digital transformation, ensuring that technology serves as an enabler rather than a driver. Attendees agreed that collaboration across the sector is vital to managing costs and aligning on best practices for implementing AI and digital solutions responsibly.

Overall, the goal is to prepare students not just for today but for the rapidly evolving demands of the future: what will a learner need in 2050, not now?

Want to discover more about how Perlego can support your institution's strategic priorities?