Global trends in digital learning and Artificial Intelligence in higher education

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping higher education by enhancing digital learning at scale. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and DALL-E have experienced explosive growth, with ChatGPT reaching 100 million users within two months of its release. These AI systems can generate human-like text, images, and even entire applications, and are already incorporated into many educational products such as Microsoft 365 Copilot and Aidriven LMS features (Brown et al., 2023). In 2024, digital learning professionals reported that Artificial intelligence (AI) / Machine learning (ML) “became mainstream,” enabling instant generation of personalised materials, quizzes, and feedback (digitallearninginstitute.com, 2014). Such learning tools allow teachers and trainers to create and update content, for instance, text or video, more quickly. In addition, analytics platforms like Smart Sparrow and Docebo leverage AI to tailor learning pathways based on student data, enhancing engagement and learning outcomes. AI is also powering assessment systems, for example, Quizalize and PrepAI, that provide real-time digital feedback. Meanwhile, immersive technologies such as AI-driven Virtual reality (VR) /augmented reality (AR) simulation are expanding in sectors like health care and manufacturing, letting students practice skills such as surgery in safe virtual environments (digitallearninginstitute.com, 2014). These developments exemplify how higher education institutions worldwide are integrating advanced AI tools into teaching, learning, and administrative processes to improve engagement, personalisation, and efficiency.