The Complementary Role of Digital Tools in Higher Education : The Importance of Integration and Digital Maturity

The shift toward digital education has accelerated, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic [1], prompting a deeper exploration into hybrid learning models in higher education. In this paper, we discuss the importance of the integration of third-party digital platforms with traditional learning environments and evaluate their effectiveness from a student engagement perspective. Based on our prior study [2], we argue that while students generally view their digital learning experiences positively, significant challenges related to platform integration and digital literacy persist. Notably, the assumption that younger adults are inherently digitally proficient is challenged, highlighting the diversity in digital skills among the student population. The study suggests that hybrid learning environments can enhance educational delivery but require careful implementation to address integration issues and support diverse learning needs. Recommendations are made for educational institutions to adopt more user-friendly digital tools and for a collaborative approach with digital platform providers to ensure seamless integration to enrich the learning experience. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on digital transformation in education, proposing a framework based on digital maturity and advocating for strategies that prioritize both technological and pedagogical efficacy.