HIGHER EDUCATION IN TRANSFORMATION: NEW WAYS OF TEACHING AND LEARNING IN THE DIGITAL AGE

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the transformations in higher education in the digital age, highlighting their impacts on pedagogical practices, teaching performance, and the learning process, as well as their potential and challenges. The methodology adopted consisted of an integrative literature review with a qualitative approach, conducted in the SciELO, CAPES, and Scopus databases, considering publications from 2021 to 2026. Initially, 80 studies were identified, of which, after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria and the PRISMA protocol, 15 articles composed the final sample. The results showed that digital technologies expand teaching and learning possibilities, promoting flexibility, interactivity, and student autonomy, in addition to fostering the development of digital competencies. However, significant challenges were also identified, such as student distraction, inequalities in access, structural limitations, and the need for continuing teacher education. It is concluded that higher education is undergoing a continuous transformation process, making the critical and intentional pedagogical use of technologies essential. The effectiveness of these changes depends on investments in teacher training, infrastructure, and inclusive strategies, ensuring innovative, balanced education centered on the comprehensive development of students.