Digital Transformation of Educational Institutions: Challenges, Opportunities and Needs Caused by the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Educational institutions have invested in digital transformation, bringing new opportunities, however, also presenting challenges associated with this change. Recently, the Covid-19 outbreak accelerated this process, accentuating online learning in the educational process. The purpose of this article was to present an overview of the challenges and opportunities related to digital transformation of educational institutions and the needs caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Consequently, to better define the subject, it was conducted a qualitative methodology of bibliographic review. Digital transformation requires a reorganization of educational institutions, not only in the academic curriculum but also in both networking and social ways. Efforts are needed to integrate students and teachers in this digital age since they require training, monitoring and support in both digital knowledge and digital security. Otherwise, there is the risk of disruptions and anguish occurrence in the transitioning process and most of the advances made may not be sustainable. Despite all the known advantages of implementing new technologies in learning, digital divide raises concerns about equity. A good internet connection and availability of equipment are essential to make teaching process uniform and fair. Covid-19 pandemic forced digital transformation and the abrupt change in routines and procedures has putted everyone under great strain, namely teachers. However, this forced change also brought positive aspects such as investment in technologies of the future, with numerous initiatives and learning models already in practice and which are here to stay, as the teaching methods will never be the same after such an impactful experience.