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Identifying dominant and heterogeneous factors influencing students’ future capabilities under the digital transformation of higher education

A machine learning approach

Bibliographic Data

ID21632474
AuthorsYinong Chen (0009-0007-9773-3495, Tongji University), Huiping Wu (0000-0001-9584-8415, Tongji University, corresponding author)
Year2026
Pages1-21
Publication date2026-01-21
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueInteractive Learning Environments (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1049-4820 • E-ISSN: 1744-5191
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/10494820.2026.2617982
OpenAlexW7125211890
LanguageEN
References cited48

In the context of digital transformation of higher education, an in-depth analysis of the key factors influencing students’ future capabilities is crucial for optimizing curriculum design and resource allocation. This study combines Self-Determination Theory (SDT) with interpretable machine learning methods, and uses 1,083 valid questionnaires from the German Forum for Digitalization of Higher Education (HFD) from November 2023 to March 2024 as samples to construct and prune the J48 decision tree model to systematically identify the dominant and heterogeneous conditions of students’ future capabilities. The results show that the high-frequency use of diversified learning forms is the core driving force for improving students’ future capabilities. When the sense of autonomy is insufficient, high-quality learning space and positive evaluation of AI tools can effectively compensate for students’ intrinsic motivation. This study provides empirical evidence for educational practitioners and policymakers to cultivate students’ adaptability, innovation and interdisciplinary capabilities in digital learning environments

Digital Learning · Digital transformation · Educational technology · Electronic learning · Educational Innovations and Challenges · Online Learning and Analytics · Technology-Enhanced Education Studies

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