Shifting to Remote Learning

 Dreaming and planning are human nature (EDUCAUSE, 2021). Socrates said, “the unreflected life is not worth living” (Lambert, 2014). So, it is hard for us to stay in the present without thinking deeply of the past and anticipating the future. The 2021 EDUCAUSE Horizon Report is the second edition describing data privacy and security challenges on higher education institutions' horizon (EDUCAUSE, 2021). In this discussion, one technology and one key trend will be discussed from the Horizon Report. Then, possible forces that could impact the technology and trend will be analyzed. Finally, a conclusion will summarize the key points. 

Note. From Wentworth Institute of Technology, (https://wit.edu/about/lit).

    One of the main challenges that Higher Education is facing is enrollment, and due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenges increased. Many institutions start to think of reducing their spending, merging with other institutions, or simply closing their doors (EDUCAUSE, 2021). So, one of the economic trends is to shift to remote learning. Migrating to remote modes may cause a reduction in enrollments as a good number of students don’t feel comfortable starting their education online. Also, there would be a higher demand due to the expanded security risks and the new structure of the mobile student body, staff, and faculty (EDUCAUSE, 2021).

    As the discussed trend is taking shape inside the higher education system, new technology practices and solutions need to be planned (EDUCAUSE, 2021). One of these key technologies is Cloud Vendor management. In 2020, institutions moved their teaching and working services primarily online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. So, to maintain such services, cloud-based solutions were critical. Cloud Vendor Management presents vital consequences for cybersecurity in the field of higher education. The impact of information security is considered extremely high, while low cost was the main motivating factor to move forward (EDUCAUSE, 2021).

    Forces such as security and social may affect the application of such an innovation as higher education, and student’s data needs to be secured as covered under the FERBA. Also, online learning may cause social isolation for college students that can reduce their self-motivation.

    In conclusion, shifting to remote learning is an economic trend that needs new technology. And in general, technology innovation will remain to be a critical ability for higher education institutions. So, operations security is crucial, not optional.

References

EDUCAUSE (2021). 2021 EDUCAUSE Horizon Report. Information Security Edition. https://library.educause.edu/-/media/files/library/2021/2/2021_horizon_report_infosec.pdf?la=en&hash=6F5254070245E2F4234C3FDE6AA1AA00ED7960FB

Lambert, M. (2014). Why reflect on the past? http://margaretlambert.com/reflect/