TY - CONF
T1 - Levelling up: the evolution of digital learning in Irish higher education
T2 - A comparative study with a focus on generative AI
AU - Concannon, Fiona
AU - McSharry, Blaneth
AU - McGrath, Gráinne
PY - 2025/5/30
Y1 - 2025/5/30
N2 - This study explores the changing digital experiences of students in an Irish Higher Education Institution, building on the findings of the 2019 INDEx (Irish National Digital Experience) survey, and aligned with an Erasmus+ project on supporting educators' digital competencies (CUTIE) and work with supporting student digital champions (Digichamps). Conducted in early 2025, our research gathered over 1,000 student responses to assess digital engagement, support, and expectations, with a particular focus on the impact of emerging generative AI (genAI) technologies on learning practices. A retrospective analysis highlights key shifts since 2019. Notably, the study captures students' diverse perceptions of genAI tools, and some insights into more detailed usage. Comparisons across disciplines, modes of study, and year groups reveal nuanced differences in adoption and attitudes. We will discuss the main findings in detail, providing insights into how to frame questions around students' evolving digital competencies and critical engagement with AI technologies, and digital education more widely. The paper offers a timely update on students' digital experiences in higher education in 2025.
AB - This study explores the changing digital experiences of students in an Irish Higher Education Institution, building on the findings of the 2019 INDEx (Irish National Digital Experience) survey, and aligned with an Erasmus+ project on supporting educators' digital competencies (CUTIE) and work with supporting student digital champions (Digichamps). Conducted in early 2025, our research gathered over 1,000 student responses to assess digital engagement, support, and expectations, with a particular focus on the impact of emerging generative AI (genAI) technologies on learning practices. A retrospective analysis highlights key shifts since 2019. Notably, the study captures students' diverse perceptions of genAI tools, and some insights into more detailed usage. Comparisons across disciplines, modes of study, and year groups reveal nuanced differences in adoption and attitudes. We will discuss the main findings in detail, providing insights into how to frame questions around students' evolving digital competencies and critical engagement with AI technologies, and digital education more widely. The paper offers a timely update on students' digital experiences in higher education in 2025.
KW - digital learning
KW - higher education
M3 - National Refereed Conference Paper
ER -