RESEARCH METHODOLOGICAL APPROACHES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF INSTRUCTIONAL INNOVATIONS ALIGNED WITH THE HIGHER EDUCATION CONTEXT OF 2037

Abstract

This research aims to (1) study the current situation and trends of using modern instructional innovations and technologies in higher education, (2) analyze appropriate research methodologies for the development and application of instructional innovations and technologies, and (3) propose guidelines for selecting research methods that align with the context of digital higher education and accommodate changes by 2037. A qualitative research methodology was used, with a purposive sample of 26 participants, including professors, administrators, experts, and students in higher education. Data was collected through in-depth interviews covering five main topics: technology in teaching, educational innovations, the impact of innovations, challenges faced, and research methodology selection. The findings revealed that: 1) The current situation and trends show that research on instructional innovations in higher education should use a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection to study learning behaviors and experiences, alongside new technologies such as Big Data, Learning Analytics, and AI for data analysis. 2) The appropriate research methodology for developing and applying instructional innovations in the digital age is a mixed-methods approach, incorporating Big Data, Learning Analytics, and AI, as well as a design-based research approach to ensure relevance in future higher education contexts. 3) Guidelines for selecting research methods aligned with the digital higher education context highlight the diverse and positive impact of innovations and technologies on student learning, particularly in terms of access to information, interaction, and skills development for the 21st century. However, significant barriers remain, such as inadequate infrastructure and the need for ongoing professional development for educators to ensure effective and sustainable technology implementation.