Students are reporting frequent technical issues with online learning platforms and campus technology, which are negatively affecting their educational experience and decision to continue their studies.
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| The study reveals that students are more likely to continue their education if they have a positive experience with campus technology. Colleges and universities need to prioritize technology infrastructure and support services to improve student retention. Image: Collegis Education |
Oak Brook, Illinois, USA, August 25, 2024:
A recent study conducted by Inside Higher Ed and Collegis Education has shed light on the significant role that technology plays in student enrollment and retention. The survey of 450 U.S. college students revealed that frustrating experiences with campus technology can have a detrimental impact on a student's decision to continue their education.
Key findings from the study underscore the challenges faced by students in today's technology-driven learning environment:
Frustrating technology experiences can deter students from continuing their education: Over 40% of students reported that technology issues could impact their decision to enroll for another term, while 39% said it could affect whether they continue to take classes at all. These findings highlight the importance of providing a reliable and user-friendly technology experience to ensure student satisfaction and retention.
Website difficulties can prevent students from applying to schools: More than a quarter of students experienced difficulties with the application process on school websites, which may discourage them from pursuing enrollment. This suggests that institutions need to prioritize the accessibility and usability of their websites to attract and retain potential students.
Online learning platforms often suffer from technical issues: A significant number of students reported frequent delays, outages, and slow connection speeds with online learning platforms. These issues can disrupt the learning process and lead to frustration among students. Colleges and universities must invest in robust and reliable online learning infrastructure to ensure a positive student experience.
Digital poverty and lack of IT support can hinder learning: Over half of students indicated that factors such as digital poverty, outdated hardware, lack of IT support, and low digital literacy impact their learning experience. These challenges can create barriers to student success and highlight the need for institutions to provide equitable access to technology and support services.
The study emphasizes the importance of providing a positive technology experience for students. By addressing technology-related issues, colleges and universities can improve student satisfaction, retention, and overall success. This requires a commitment to investing in technology infrastructure, providing adequate support services, and ensuring equitable access to technology for all students.