| |NOVEMBER 20259EUROPEEUROPETECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS THAT DRIVE EDUCATION SECTORensuring we hear directly about barriers such as technology gaps or commuting challenges. But the real work is in integration -- aligning technology with advising practices, academic policies and resource allocation. Technology supports but does not replace relationships; it enables advisors to act in time and with precision. In a large and merged institution, technology allows us to scale support equitably and to embed evidence-based practices consistently across campuses. Education Technology in Foreseeable FutureThe biggest challenges are personalization, integration and ethics. Students expect seamless experiences where systems talk to each other and services are tailored to their needs. Many colleges still have siloed tools, making it hard to deliver cohesive support. The opportunity lies in unifying systems to create a holistic view of each student. Another challenge is ethical use of data is balancing predictive analytics with transparency and fairness. CT State is preparing by investing in infrastructure that connects systems, prioritizing data integrity and embedding equity into design. We are training staff -- not to just use technology, but to interpret data in context -- ensuring that human judgment and empathy remain central. By fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, we aim to lead in creating student-centered technology ecosystems. Such an ecosystem can only be fostered with trust, which is built through transparency and respect. Students need to know how their data is being collected, used and protected. At CT State, we focus on proportionality -- using data only to the extent necessary to support success. We balance predictive insights with ethical considerations, ensuring no student is reduced to a data point. Advisors are trained to interpret data as a starting point for conversation, not a final judgment. By embedding safeguards and openly communicating our practices, we create a culture where data empowers students and staff rather than creating fear. The balance comes from remembering that behind every metric is a person with goals, challenges and potential.Striving for Student Success StrategiesMy advice is to center students and equity at every stage. Start with the question: "How will this improve outcomes for our most underserved students?" Align technology with institutional strategy rather than adopting tools in isolation. Invest in staff capacity -- training, professional development and time to learn. Blend quantitative data with qualitative stories, because both are essential to understanding impact. Finally, communicate consistently: success requires buy-in from advisors, faculty, leadership and students. When technology is positioned as a tool for equity and persistence, integration becomes more than operational -- it becomes transformational. By embedding safeguards and openly communicating our practices, we create a culture where data empowers students and staff rather than creating fear.
< Page 8 | Page 10 >