Conclusions - supporting the digital student
Authors: Bond, E., Phippen, A.
Publication Date: 01/01/2026
Pages: 257-273
DOI: 10.1016/B978-0-443-34057-4.00011-0
Abstract:This concluding chapter explores the evolving nature of the digital student within higher education, emphasising how digital technologies shape academic learning, identity formation, mental wellbeing, and social interactions. Drawing on empirical research and interdisciplinary perspectives presented in the previous chapters, the authors conceptualise students as navigating hybrid ecologies where physical and digital domains intersect. Using actor-network theory, the chapter returns to critique simplistic notions of ‘digital natives’ and highlights the complex interplay between human and nonhuman actors - including platforms, policies, and pedagogical tools - in shaping student experiences. It addresses key issues such as digital literacy, resilience, attention management, online intimacy, and safeguarding responsibilities. The chapter calls for institutional strategies that move beyond technical competence to rights-based and inclusive approaches that foster ethical digital citizenship, responsive policy-making, and meaningful student support in an increasingly digitised higher education landscape.
Source: Scopus