Digital Transformation in Higher Education: Maturity and Challenges Post COVID-19

Abstract

Digital transformation in higher education, especially after COVID-19 is inevitable. This research explores digital transformation maturity and challenges post COVID-19. The significance of the study does not only stem from the critical role of higher education in building the workforce and knowledge economy. This study triangulates the findings of multiple research instruments, including survey, interviews, case study, and direct observation. The research findings show a significant variance between the respondents' perception of digital transformations maturity levels, and the core requirements of digital transformation maturity. The findings also show the lack of holistic vision, digital transformation competency, and data structure and processing as the leading challenges of digital transformation.

Categories for Barriers to Digital Transformation in Higher Education: An Analysis Based on Literature

“…The previous study that was conducted by Kalolo [26] on several higher education institutions in developing countries showed that the lack of human resources became the main problem in the higher education institution that will implement the digital transformation, especially in the effort to move and integrate the digital technology in teaching-learning activities. The study is in line with what has been shown by Marks et al [10], Schaffhauser [19], and Rafiq et al [21] who also confirmed that the availability of resources with technical skills in the innovation of the education system is scarce.…”

“…A study by Mark et al [10] found that most higher education institutions did not have a holistic vision of digital transformation yet. In addition, they lack the support and skill to form and deciding the most suitable new vision to achieve the success of the implementation of digital transformation is a barrier to the higher education institution [15], [16].…”

“…Digital technology integration in the teaching-learning process is a complex negotiation process among many decision-makers in higher education institutions [15]. A study by Marks et al [10] stated that the newest digital technology does not guarantee compatibility with the existing systems. By that point, higher education will face obstacles and be forced to put more attention on data structure and processing or custom integration.…”

“…The basic problem that underlies this study was about what barriers need to be considered when implementing digital transformation in higher education. Even though several barriers to digital transformation in higher education had been identified by previous literature [1], [9], [10], there was no concept in those studies developed to compile the description and list of the barriers completely. Therefore, in practice, the use of definition and description of the barriers to digital transformation in higher education sector becomes unclear.…”

Usable comprehensive-factor authentication for a secure time attendance system

“…Additionally, they do not need to wait in a long queue compared to physical time attendance systems. It was confirmed in Marks et al (2021) that digital transformation during and post-COVID-19 should be carefully done, since there are a number of information technology (IT), security, and health safety challenges, but people are not aware of this holistic vision. In the final step, a user will give their consent related to data privacy.…”