A 2017 survey of chief academic officers (CAOs) found that more than 85% said they believe digital learning tools make learning
more efficient and effective for students. In addition, 92% said adaptive
learning has great potential to improve learning outcomes and nearly 90% would
like their faculty to use the technology more often in entry-level and gateway
courses.
Students clearly agree, as 94% responding to the fourth-annual
McGraw-Hill Education digital student trends survey said using digital learning technologies helped them retain new concepts and
60% said the tools helped to improve their grades.
“Powerful digital learning technology can customize the
learning experience for every student, helping him or her understand
challenging concepts more fully and empowering them to improve their classroom performance,”
said Scott Virkler, chief product officer, McGraw-Hill Education. “As these
solutions continue to make inroads on college campuses, we look forward to
seeing even more improvements in student learning outcomes.”
Students said digital learning tools were helpful in
preparing for tests and exams and completing assignments, and made self-study
easier. The survey also reported a majority of students use laptops more than
printed materials to complete homework and in test preparation, while just 38%
said they used their smartphone on assignments or for test prep.
On the other hand, the CAOs told pollsters that students without
the necessary digital devices were holding back campus efforts to go more
digital or all-digital.
“Owning
a digital device—a laptop or tablet—really is essential for digital access,”
said Kenneth C. Green, founding director of The Campus Computing Project.
“Although well-intended, extended hours in campus computer labs do not
adequately serve the needs or the schedules of full- and part-time students who
have families, jobs, and other community commitments beyond their college
coursework.”
