Prospects for Digitalization of Higer Education in Armenia in the Context of Post-pandemic and Post-war Transformations
Marek Sokołowski
University of Warmia and Mazury in OlsztynArmen Sahakyan
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of ArmeniaMaria Zaslavskaya
Yerevan State UniversityAbstract
This article examines the challenges and opportunities of digitalizing higher education in Armenia in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the aftermath of the 44-day war in 2020 (Nagorno Karabahh Conflict). The aim is to assess the potential for improving the competitiveness of the Armenian education system through digital transformation and hybrid learning models.
Theoretical Framework: The research is grounded in theories of digital learning and hybrid education, focusing on how crises, such as pandemics and wars, impact higher education. It explores the transformation of education in response to these crises.
Method: The study is based on a series of surveys conducted between 2020 and 2023, including questionnaires for students, in-depth interviews with educators, and expert consultations from a broad range of specialists in education. These methods provide insights into the effects of the pandemic and war on higher education in Armenia.
Results and Discussion: The study finds that the effectiveness of online and hybrid learning depends on both objective factors (such as modern IT platforms, digital education methods, and quality monitoring systems) and subjective factors (such as students' attitudes toward digital innovations and their psychological adaptation). Hybrid learning has shown potential for greater flexibility and economic benefits, but there is a need for better planning, infrastructure, and digital literacy training.
Research Implications: The findings suggest that creating a new educational environment optimized for digitalization and distance learning could improve the higher education in Armenia.
Originality/Value: This research offers insights into post-crisis educational transformation and provides practical recommendations for enhancing digital learning in Armenia.
Keywords:
higher education system, pandemic, post-war society, digitalization of education, hybrid learning modelsReferences
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University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia
Yerevan State University
