Click below to hear the entire conversation:
eCampus: Can you give us a sneak peek into some of the top trends you’ll be discussing at the event? Specifically, trends that don’t involve AI?
Kathe Pelletier: [Laughs] That’s a tricky one! It’s tough to talk about anything without AI coming into the conversation these days. But yes, one trend I’m excited about is data governance and data management. Institutions are realizing they need to get their “data house” in order, which includes building a strong data culture and improving data literacy. This is especially important for those planning to implement custom AI tools.
Another area I’m seeing a lot of interest in is workforce development, especially with a focus on human-centered leadership. There’s a push to give people space to innovate and grow without overwhelming them, which ties into broader conversations about workforce culture.
eCampus: You mention workforce culture. Coming out
of the pandemic, it feels like higher ed has seen more permanent changes—particularly around hybrid learning. Do you agree?
Kathe Pelletier: Absolutely. At Educause, we’ve done a number of studies on students and technology, and faculty and technology. What’s becoming clear is that flexibility is key to hybrid and online learning. Even students who prefer face-to-face learning want options to flex their schedules. Similarly, faculty might prefer in- person teaching but recognize the need to offer digital options for students who require that flexibility. It’s no longer just about the modality but about providing a flexible learning environment for everyone.
eCampus: We joke about AI fatigue, but it really is everywhere. While there’s a lot of focus on AI in the classroom, we’re interested in how AI is transforming the back-office operations in higher ed. Can you speak to that?
Kathe Pelletier: Yes, we’re seeing AI’s potential in administrative functions as well. The conversation around students using AI has taken the lead, but we’re now exploring how staff can use AI ethically and responsibly. It’s about streamlining repetitive tasks so staff have
more time for innovation and development. That said, there’s still a lot to figure out. Each institution will have to determine how to use AI in ways that suit their specific needs, whether it’s in administrative roles or student- facing operations.
eCampus: Another topic that’s always top of mind
is cybersecurity. I’m sure it will be a key focus at the Educause conference as well. Any emerging trends in that area?
Kathe Pelletier: Cybersecurity is always a hot topic,
and for good reason. If our data or spaces aren’t safe, nothing else really matters. One area that’s evolving is the relationship between cybersecurity and privacy. On some campuses, these responsibilities fall under the Chief Information Security Officer, while others may have a Chief Privacy Officer. Privacy is becoming a distinct and sophisticated field, and we’re seeing more attention on this at Educause this year.
Kevin is a forward-thinking media executive with more than 25 years of experience building brands and audiences online, in print, and face to face. He is an acclaimed writer, editor, and commentator covering the intersection of society and technology, especially education technology. You can reach Kevin at KevinHogan@eschoolnews.com
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