Episode 7 of the Advance HE Talking Transformation podcast explores how technology can support educational excellence.
In this episode, host Charles Knight is joined by Laura Milne, head of digital education at the University of Chester, to discuss the use of technology in higher education. The discussion highlights the challenges of planning in an era where cloud-based educational technology constantly evolves, with AI features being added across platforms. Rather than focusing on specific tools, Milne advocates helping staff develop resilience to change itself.
Key concerns include the complexity of vendor licensing, the need for critical digital literacy amongst students, and creating authentic assessment that prepares graduates for modern workplaces. The modular system’s limitations are questioned when trying to provide coherent, scaffolded learning experiences.
The conversation concludes by exploring how technology can genuinely support marginalised students and reduce digital divides. Examples include Chester’s Adobe Creative Campus partnership and innovative AI use in product design, where students demonstrated impressive critical awareness of both AI’s benefits and limitations.
Listen to the episode below or by searching ‘Advance HE’ wherever you get your podcasts.
