The National Forum, in partnership with higher education institutions across the country and their representative bodies, will soon launch Ireland’s first national survey of the digital experiences of those who teach and learn in Irish higher education. The Irish National Digital Experience (INDEx) Survey is an opportunity to better understand the digital engagement, experiences and expectations of students and teaching staff in Irish higher education. It will provide evidence upon which strategic and investment decisions about digital interventions can be based and will provide an international benchmark for Irish higher education.
All universities and technological higher education institutions, as well as a number of private colleges, are taking part in the survey. The survey will be formally launched by Minister of State for Higher Education, Mary Mitchell O’Connor T.D., on October 14 2019 and will be open for responses, from students and those who teach, during October/November 2019. The part of the survey dedicated to students asks questions about students’ preparation for digital learning, digital learning practices, use of digital technologies, and attitudes to digital. The part of the survey for those who teach poses questions about their experiences and perspectives on the digital environment and on their digital teaching, learning and assessment practices.
The INDEx Survey is integral to broader initiatives to enhance digital capacity and realise the potential of digital transformation in Irish higher education, as outlined in several recent policy and strategy documents, such as the HEA’s Strategic Plan 2018-22, the IUA’s Charter for Irish Universities and THEA’s Strategic Plan 2018-23. A national steering group led by the National Forum, including nominated representatives from across the sector, will oversee the implementation of the survey at institutional level.
