From Connectivity to Completion: Tackling the AI and Digital Divides in Higher Ed

Digital infrastructure is an essential part of higher education, but the sector still struggles to close gaps in how students, faculty and others within and between institutions access and optimize technology. 

Drawing on expert insights, case studies and data from the new AI and Digital Maturity Index (AI-DMI), produced by Inside Higher Ed and Times Higher Education's consulting team, this editorial webcast will map out today’s most urgent divides and explore how they influence student success, innovation and more. We’ll also look at how connectivity, tool and device access, digital literacy and institutional strategy intersect—along with strategies for building more equitable, effective institutions. 

Ultimately, the discussion will consider what it means to future-proof campuses: How can colleges and universities achieve the digital capacity, agility and even leadership needed to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven sector and world? 

Discussion points include:

• Where does the digital divide still persist in higher education today?
• How does digital inequity shape student success and persistence?
• How are colleges using technology to build long-term success and sustainability, and to improve student enrollment/retention?
• Will AI likely widen—or help close—the digital divide in higher education?
• What does a future-proof campus look like?

Additional resources:

• “Evidence-Based Pathways for Leveling Digital Access in Higher Education During and Beyond the COVID-19 Pandemic” (Journal of Information Policy)
• “The Digital Divide: Student Generative AI Access” (Inside Higher Ed)
• “Agency at Stake: The Tech Leadership Imperative” (Inside Higher Ed)
• “How to Help Faculty Meet New Accessibility Requirements” (Inside Higher Ed)
• "2025 Survey of College and University Chief Academic Officers" (Inside Higher Ed)
• "Colleges Are Running Out of Time on Digital Accessibility" (Inside Higher Ed)