Navigating the Future: AI-Driven Trends Transforming Tertiary Education in Australia and New Zealand

Leaders such as Morgan Popely, Startup Community Manager at the University of Technology Sydney, highlights the importance of reevaluating existing structures post-COVID-19, with a focus on shifting from traditional perspectives towards co-creating a value proposition for future generations.

Thought leaders unanimously agree that today’s learners demand a different educational experience compared to past generations. The emphasis is on constant evolution supported by digital innovation rather than a revolutionary overhaul. This approach aligns with the need to balance technical potential with human application.

Four pivotal priorities are crucial for instigating transformative shifts in tertiary education:

• Digital Systems: Tackling the challenge of slow internal change by addressing interconnected systems.
• Student Engagement: Recognising the pragmatic choices students make and ensuring the value of learning activities.
• Access and Equity: Applying Universal Design from the outset to create a more accessible and safer learning environment.
• Modality: Embracing work-based training, micro-credentials, and AI-driven education for a flexible and tailored learning experience.

Migrate and Modernise: There is advocating for the adoption of cloud-based systems to facilitate gradual, low-risk transformation. Success stories, such as the University of Newcastle’s migration to the cloud, demonstrate the benefits of modernising infrastructure.

Earning the Student Commute: Recognising students’ desire for choice and flexibility, institutions are encouraged to create engaging, interactive learning experiences. The University of Melbourne’s smart campus methodology, powered by IoT and ML, exemplifies how technology can enhance the student experience both on and off-campus.

Universal Design and Integrated Solutions: To meet the diverse needs of students, there is an emphasis on the importance of universal design and integrated solutions. Technologies like AR, VR, and Digital Twins are proposed to provide inclusive and experiential learning opportunities.

Work-Based Training and Micro-Credentials: There is a shift towards a more flexible and adaptive learning model, with micro-credentials gaining prominence. Initiatives like the AWS Skills to Jobs VET Virtual Work Placement Program illustrate the potential of aligning education with industry needs.

“Work-based training will become more of the norm. Technology is going to make that a reality – connecting with the AI side of things for automatic grading, which is great as everyone wants instantaneous feedback. A student in an on-the-job, style of learning will have their technology with them; their phone / the app. They’re filming what they’re seeing and then they’re putting in their comments and they’re getting real-time feedback – instantly.

The best way to learn from your peers is in situ; learning from your peers on what’s going on – seeing how they react…”

Garth Hehir

While acknowledging concerns about assessment validity, there is a positive mindset towards the opportunities presented by AI, particularly Generative AI. Thought leaders foresee AI playing a crucial role in work-based training, providing instantaneous feedback, and creating a more fluid learning experience.

In providing a comprehensive overview of the AI-driven trends shaping the future of tertiary education in Australia and New Zealand. Today’s thought leaders support a transformative journey towards a more flexible, inclusive, and technologically advanced educational landscape. Delve deeper into the latest trends, insights and the future of education, in the full e-book here.

Learn more about Elumina’s online Assessment solutions here: Digital Assessments