Technology and the Universities of Tomorrow
20.09.2023 - 03:20
In partnership with the Coalition for Digital Learners, Mandala explored the role of technology in higher education. We conducted a student-centric survey alongside economic modeling of how Australian universities can leverage technology to deliver better teaching, better student outcomes, and a stronger economy.
In partnership with the Coalition for Digital Learners, Mandala explored the role of technology in higher education.
This research examines the changing role of technology in universities and identifies how we could improve the performance of Australian universities and grow our economy by more than $3 billion a year.
Technology is core to the way teaching and learning is conducted today. As we consider how to strengthen universities and to be more inclusive of students from a broader range of backgrounds in the future, the position and potential of technology must be at the centre of our policy thinking.
Technology is rapidly changing university learning – and more change is coming
New technologies have transformed higher education in the past 30 years – from the advent of the internet to the use of tablets and mobile learning technologies. At each stage, universities, students and regulators have reacted and adapted to these changes. Today, students have wide availability of technologies at their disposal to support their education. This ranges from learning management software, such as Canvas, to mass open online courses (MOOCs), such as Khan Academy.
Students overwhelmingly use technology ethically and effectively
Our survey shows that most university students are using technology as supplementary tools to help them succeed in their studies – not for academically dishonest reasons.
90 per cent of students use online education tools to help them learn at their own pace, enhance their learning experience, or to make their learning more personalised and engaging. Technology provided by universities and sourced independently by students are commonly used by students of all ages and backgrounds. Just 10 per cent of students reported using technology to help them access answers to homework or exam material that they did not understand. Moreover, while this small cohort may include some with unethical motivations, it also includes students driven by a genuine desire to comprehend course material.
Technology benefits students from diverse backgrounds the most
Our survey shows students from diverse backgrounds – including those from lower socio-economic areas, those who don’t speak English as a first language, those caring for others, or those balancing study with work responsibilities – place greater importance on the flexibility and support that education technology tools offer to help them succeed in their studies.
Australian universities lag on equity, student centricity, and economic outcomes
Australia is currently lagging on the core objective of improving university participation and completion rates for people from underrepresented groups. Students from low socio-economic backgrounds make up just 16 per cent of domestic enrolments – missing the target of 20 per cent set by the Bradley Review – while less than 65 per cent of students from low socio-economic backgrounds are completing their degrees. The Universities Accord process presents major challenges to the current context, by setting ambitious future targets for the engagement of diverse and equitable groups in university education.
Improving university performance through technology could growth the economy by more than $3 billion per year
Our modelling indicates that growing Australia’s education technology sector in partnership with universities, as well as improving the application of technology in university learning, could have widespread economic benefits. To achieve this outcome, we need a range of regulatory reforms as well as a closer links between universities, industry and the Australian EdTech sector.
Read our latest posts
Reducing out-of-pocket costs for Australian healthcare consumers
In partnership with Private Healthcare Australia (PHA), our latest report reveals the increasing strain of out-of-pocket healthcare costs on Australian consumers. Without urgent action, these costs could reach $1.6 billion by 2030, driven by limited competition, lack of price transparency, and weak consumer protections. Costs have already surged 12% in the past year, and 330,000 Australians are expected to delay care due to affordability concerns. Transparent pricing and stronger protections could save consumers millions. Read our full analysis to understand the challenges—and the solutions—that could make healthcare more accessible for all.
27 Mar, 2025
The Social Dividend: An Actuarial Case for Higher Income Support
Our new report explores the full impact of increasing JobSeeker—not just the economic benefits, but also the significant social returns and efficiency savings. Using actuarial techniques, micro-data analysis, and leading econometric research, we quantify the broader benefits of raising JobSeeker to 90% of the Age Pension. Our findings show that every $100 invested delivers a $24 social return, improving health outcomes, reducing justice system interactions, and lowering long-term welfare dependence. Importantly, the efficiency savings outweigh any potential reduction in job search intensity. This report provides new insights into why increasing JobSeeker is both a smart investment and a necessary reform.
27 Mar, 2025
20-years of Fitted for Work driving employment success
To mark 20 years of Fitted for Work, Mandala Partners conducted an economic analysis to quantify the organisation’s impact. Our findings show that for every $1 invested, Fitted for Work delivers $2.19 in immediate economic benefits, unlocking $86 million in value over two decades by supporting 45,000 clients. The analysis highlights that Fitted for Work reduces job search duration by half compared to the national average, significantly improving employment outcomes. Notably, the organisation has expanded its support for older women, addressing a critical and growing need in the community.
27 Mar, 2025
The value of shifting to four-year parliamentary terms
This research quantifies significant benefits of extending Commonwealth House of Representatives' terms from three to four years. While Australia's states and territories have adopted four-year terms, the Commonwealth remains among only eight countries globally with three-year or shorter terms.Our analysis shows potential gains of $59-71 billion over 20 years through reducing election frequency. Benefits include $4.6 billion in avoided direct costs, $40.7 billion in enhanced business investment from reduced electoral uncertainty, and $14-26 billion through improved government policy.
17 Mar, 2025