Below are five key trends that will shape higher education in the coming year.
1. AI-Driven Personalized Learning
Artificial intelligence is transforming education by providing personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs. “As a cutting-edge component in modern education, AI-driven technologies are redefining personalized learning by tailoring educational content to meet the individual needs, learning styles, and paces of students,” TechTimes said in an article “AI Revolutionizing the Future of Personalized Learning.”
Institutions are integrating AI-powered tools to create more dynamic and inclusive learning environments. YuJa’s AI capabilities, for example, streamline video learning with AI-generated captions, Enhanced Audio Descriptions, and AI-generated multilingual dubbing, which automatically creates language tracks. With the introduction of generative AI-driven Video Chapters, students can quickly navigate key moments of impact within a video, simplifying content and making it more engaging. YuJa’s recently launched Ask-a-Video-Question, which allows students to chat with an AI about a video they’re watching reinforces understanding in real time.
2. A Renewed Focus on Digital Accessibility
With an increased emphasis on inclusivity, digital accessibility will continue to be a major priority this year.
In 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice published a final rule under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), mandating that public educational institutions ensure their web content and mobile applications are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This rule requires compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards by April 2026.
To meet these requirements, institutions are investing in tools that provide real-time accessibility suggestions, offer alternative formats, and feature user-friendly accessibility dashboards. These efforts help create inclusive learning environments that accommodate students’ diverse needs.
3. The Next Evolution of Hybrid Learning
Gaining popularity during the height of the pandemic, hybrid, and HyFlex learning models continue to gain traction. Not only does hybrid learning provide flexibility to students, but it expands access to higher education.
“The hybrid model enables students to live anywhere in the country without relocating to a large metropolitan area,” said April Briggs, director of strategic partnerships at Evidence In Motion (EIM). “This allows them to save money, remain in their local communities, and ideally complete clinical placements locally, helping to reduce the brain drain from rural areas.”
Instructors and administrators are refining strategies to create engaging experiences that integrate live lectures, asynchronous content, and interactive assessments to help ensure students stay connected, regardless of location.
4. Video-Based Assessments on the Rise
As online learning expands, institutions are moving beyond traditional multiple-choice exams and written assignments. Video-based assessments allow students to demonstrate their understanding in a more interactive way while enabling instructors to provide richer feedback.
“Student-generated video creation for assessment is shown to have several benefits, notably in supporting development of digital and communication skills relevant to today’s world and in enhancing learning,” a research article in the International Journal for Transformative Research stated.
As educational institutions continue to explore assessment strategies, video-based assessments can provide a rich learning experience while better preparing students for future professional environments.
5. Data-Driven Decision-Making
Institutions are leveraging data analytics to improve student outcomes, track engagement, and optimize course design.
By collecting and analyzing data on student performance, engagement, and demographics, educators can identify at-risk students and implement timely interventions to support their academic journey. In addition, data-driven strategies help improve courses and programs by identifying trends over time. A continuous feedback loop allows for proactive adjustments, helping ensure course content remains relevant and effective.
Using insights from their video CMS and other learning platforms, institutional leaders and instructors can make informed decisions that enhance student success.
Looking Ahead
In 2025 and beyond, institutions that embrace innovation and adaptability will be best positioned to meet the needs of their learners. By leveraging technology and prioritizing accessibility, flexibility, and data-driven strategies, colleges and universities can create an inclusive and future-ready learning environment.
