The Digital Transformation of Higher Education in the Context of an AI-Driven Future

Aizhan Nazyrova (), Marek Miłosz, Gulmira Bekmanova, Assel Omarbekova, Gaukhar Aimicheva and Yenglik Kadyr ()
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Aizhan Nazyrova: Faculty of Information Technologies, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, 2 Satpayev Str., Astana 010008, Kazakhstan
Marek Miłosz: Department of Computer Science, Lublin University of Technology, 36B Nadbystrzycka Str., 20-618 Lublin, Poland
Gulmira Bekmanova: Faculty of Information Technologies, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, 2 Satpayev Str., Astana 010008, Kazakhstan
Assel Omarbekova: Faculty of Information Technologies, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, 2 Satpayev Str., Astana 010008, Kazakhstan
Gaukhar Aimicheva: Faculty of Information Technologies, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, 2 Satpayev Str., Astana 010008, Kazakhstan
Yenglik Kadyr: Institute of Automation and Information Technology, Satbayev University, Almaty 050013, Kazakhstan

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 22, 1-25

Abstract: In this article, digital transformation is examined as a key driver of structural and pedagogical change in higher education. This process is shown to expand access to learning, increase flexibility, support personalized educational trajectories, and enhance data-driven decision-making. At the same time, the effectiveness of digital transformation depends on institutional readiness, the quality of technological infrastructure, and the professional competencies of teaching staff. This research of this study is to assess the influence of digital transformation on the quality of higher education. This research employs a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data from surveys of 4971 students and 483 instructors were analyzed using descriptive statistics, analysis of variance ANOVA, and multivariable regression, while qualitative focus group findings were examined through thematic analysis. The results indicate generally positive attitudes toward digitalization. The respondents emphasized flexibility and improved conditions for independent learning as key advantages of digital environments. However, this study also identifies several challenges, including infrastructural inequality, limited digital skills, and insufficient pedagogical adaptation. The article concludes that successful digital transformation requires a comprehensive strategic vision and sustained institutional support. For universities, strengthening digital competencies, modernizing infrastructure, and implementing management models focused on continuous improvement are essential conditions for ensuring sustainable development and enhancing the quality of education.

Keywords: digital transformation; higher education; educational digitalization; e-learning; blended learning; learning analytics; learning management systems (LMS); educational ecosystem (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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