Disruptive technologies in higher education: challenges, opportunities, and digital transformation
Keywords:
Disruptive technologies, higher education, digital transformation, pedagogical innovation, institutional sustainability, personalized learningAbstract
Digital transformation and the adoption of disruptive technologies in higher education represent a topic of increasing relevance, given their capacity to redefine teaching, institutional management, and the student experience in environments of high uncertainty and constant change. This study aimed to analyze the challenges, opportunities, and implementation strategies of these technologies, considering their pedagogical, administrative, and organizational impact in various institutions. To this end, a qualitative methodology based on a systematic literature review was applied, integrating empirical and theoretical studies, as well as multivocal reviews published between 2012 and 2026, selected from academic databases such as Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar. Thematic analysis allowed for the grouping of contributions into categories that include benefits of digitization, barriers and limitations, emerging trends, implementation strategies, and institutional sustainability. The findings demonstrate that disruptive technologies, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, online teaching platforms, and data analytics, facilitate personalized learning, expand educational access, optimize administrative processes, and strengthen pedagogical innovation. However, significant challenges persist, such as resistance to change, digital skills gaps, insufficient infrastructure, and financial limitations, which can generate inequalities among institutions and students. The analyzed contributions underscore that the strategic integration of disruptive technologies not only improves educational quality but also enhances the sustainability, equity, and adaptability of universities in the face of contemporary challenges.
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