The Pulse of Higher Ed

UPCEA and Instructure recently released the results of a survey on whether institutions are utilizing AI to enhance learner outcomes and records, and if so, how? Most survey respondents are heavily involved in developing learner experiences and tracking outcomes, though nearly half report that their institutions have yet to adopt AI-driven tools for these purposes. Among those using AI, common applications include predictive analytics and feedback systems, but challenges like academic integrity, data privacy, and insufficient training remain significant concerns. Digital comprehensive learner records are largely unimplemented across institutions, though there is some movement towards adoption. Meanwhile, digital credentials are more commonly issued, driven by strategic goals, student demand, and the need for skills validation by employers.

In recent years, higher education has undergone rapid transformation, with many institutions embracing new forms of credentials, online learning modalities, and the integration of AI-driven technologies into both curricula and staff operations. Increasingly, more students are pursuing badges, certificates, and other alternative credentials, enabling them to pursue higher education without committing to a full degree program. While traditional bachelor’s and associate degrees saw a decline over the past academic year, certificates experienced a 3.9% increase from the 2021-2022 academic year to 2022-2023.

While degrees are typically recognized by employers, they can vary across different institutions in focus and the specific skills taught. Additionally, certificates, badges, and other alternative credentials may be less familiar, often requiring additional context to clarify the specific competencies learners have gained through their studies. To holistically represent these achievements and accurately document a student’s academic and professional journey, some institutions have implemented Comprehensive Learner Records (CLRs) which provide a complete overview of an individual’s lifelong learning experiences, from early education through their professional career. CLRs can include academic accomplishments, co-curricular activities, competencies, skills, certifications, and other learning milestones. They are not only invaluable in showcasing an individual’s talents and achievements to potential employers and organizations, but they are also verifiable and trusted to accurately reflect these accomplishments. As digital records, CLRs are easy to update, share, and verify, aligning with the broader trend of adopting more flexible and inclusive methods for documenting and recognizing learning in today’s society.

“Digital comprehensive learner records could act as a passport for learners, allowing them to travel through the course of their educational lifetime, obtaining stamps of knowledge sets and skill bases,” said Bruce Etter, Senior Director of Research & Consulting at UPCEA. “As a community, we have work to do to eliminate barriers to creating digital CLRs, such as resource limitations, staff readiness and resistance to change.” 

Download the full report.