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Understanding digital transformation challenges for online learning and teaching in higher education institutions: a review and research framework

Shalini Sahni (Koach Scholar, New Delhi, India)
Sushma Verma (Vivekanand Education Society’s Institute of Management Studies and Research, Mumbai, India)
Rahul Pratap Singh Kaurav (FORE School of Management, New Delhi, India)

Benchmarking: An International Journal

ISSN: 1463-5771

Article publication date: 10 May 2024

49

Abstract

Purpose

The widespread uptake of digital technology tools for online teaching and learning reached its peak during the nationwide lockdown triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. It transformed the higher education institutions (HEIs) marketplace both in developed and developing countries. However, in this process of digital transformation, several HEIs, specifically from developing countries, faced major challenges. That threatened to affect their sustainability and performance. In this vein, this study conducts a bibliometric review to map the challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and suggest strategies for HEIs to cope with post-pandemic situations in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

This comprehensive review encompasses 343 papers published between 2020 and 2023, employing a systematic approach that combines bibliometrics and content analysis to thoroughly evaluate the articles.

Findings

The investigation revealed a lack of published work addressing the specific challenges faced by the faculty members affecting their well-being. The study underscores the importance of e-learning technology adoption for higher education sustainability by compelling both students and teachers to rely heavily on social media platforms to maintain social presence and facilitate remote learning. The reduced interpersonal interaction during the pandemic has had negative consequences for academic engagement and professional advancement for both educators and students.

Practical implications

This has implications for policymakers and the management of HEIs, as it may prove useful in reenvisioning and redesigning future curricula. The paper concludes by developing a sustainable learning framework using a blended approach. Additionally, we also provide directions for future research to scholars.

Originality/value

This study has implications for policymakers and HEI management to rethink the delivery of future courses with a focus on education and institute sustainability. Finally, the research also proposes a hybrid learning framework for sustainability and forms a robust foundation for scholars in future research.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

The infrastructural support provided by FORE School of Management, New Delhi, in completing this article is gratefully acknowledged.

Citation

Sahni, S., Verma, S. and Kaurav, R.P.S. (2024), "Understanding digital transformation challenges for online learning and teaching in higher education institutions: a review and research framework", Benchmarking: An International Journal, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/BIJ-04-2022-0245

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited

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