Information and educational environment of the university: priorities and development deficits

In light of the increasing significance of training highly qualified specialists, enhancing the information and educational environment of Russian universities has emerged as a key trend in improving the effectiveness of teaching practices.Aim. The present research aims to analyse students’ assessments of the characteristics of the information and educational environment in higher education within the context of digitalisation, identifying priorities and deficiencies in its development. Methodology and research methods. The study employs systemic, situational, axiological, and socio-engineering approaches. This article presents the findings of an empirical investigation into the priorities and deficiencies in the development of the information and educational environment within higher education. A total of 1,107 students, aged 17 to 29 years, participated in the study. The primary method utilised was a questionnaire survey, which effectively captured the nuances of the information and educational environment in the context of digitalisation. It also reflected the students’ perceptions of the semantic meanings associated with digital transformations, as well as their opinions on the priorities and shortcomings in the evolution of the contemporary information and educational environment in higher education. Results and scientific novelty. The data obtained allow us to discuss the positive expectations of young people regarding the digital transformation of the educational process in higher education. This analysis examines the influence of teachers’ digital skills on the meaningful enhancement of the information and educational environment, as well as the formation of new psychological and pedagogical opportunities for fostering cooperation during the educational process. Several barriers to the development of the information and educational environment have been identified, including insufficient material and technical resources in universities, a low level of digital competence among teachers, and a limited range of interactive technologies being utilised. Furthermore, it has been established that the psychological and pedagogical risks associated with the development of the information and educational environment are linked to a decline in students’ knowledge and communication skills. Practical significance. The results obtained can be utilised by administrators and educators in higher education institutions when evaluating deficiencies in the development of the information and educational environment.