Technology-Enhanced Learning in Humanitarian Emergencies: Promise and Risks

Abstract: Technology-enhanced learning (TEL) in humanitarian emergencies offers substantial potential to preserve learning continuity, deliver psychosocial support, and sustain workforce training where formal systems are disrupted. TEL modalities encompass a wide range of solutions from low-tech radio and SMS to high-tech online platforms, mobile applications, offline-capable resources, and blended models that combine digital and in-person facilitation. In emergency contexts such as armed conflict, mass displacement, natural disasters, and global pandemics including COVID-19, TEL can increase reach, enable rapid curriculum adaptation, and support monitoring and credentialing when physical infrastructure is compromised. However, TEL also introduces significant risks that must be managed: exacerbating digital divides, exposing vulnerable populations to surveillance and data breaches, creating dependencies on fragile infrastructure, and diverting limited resources from community-led non-digital responses. This paper synthesizes the literature on TEL in crisis settings, examines practical modalities and their comparative advantages, analyzes ethical, protection, and equity concerns, and presents illustrative examples of training students and employees during the COVID-19 pandemic and conflict-affected environments. Recommendations emphasize layered modality design, data-minimizing practices, community partnership and capacity building, inclusive technology design, contingency planning, and integration of psychosocial support. The paper concludes with a research and policy agenda to strengthen the responsible deployment of TEL in humanitarian settings, urging rigorous but context-sensitive evaluation approaches and sustained funding for resilient, locally led solutions. Keywords: Technology-enhanced learning; education in emergencies; digital learning; data protection; COVID-19; low-tech solutions; blended learning; psychosocial support; displaced learners; workforce training Title: Technology-Enhanced Learning in Humanitarian Emergencies: Promise and Risks Author: Rodaina Faisal Al-Zamel International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 14, Issue 1, January 2026 - March 2026 Page No: 305-309 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 14-March-2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19018388 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/technology-enhanced-learning-in-humanitarian-emergencies-promise-and-risks