Abstract:
Digitalization is rapidly transforming the way education is imparted around the globe and this
trend is also being witnessed in Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of
digitalization on the quality of education in higher education institutions in Ethiopia, focusing on
four universities namely Jimma, Mettu, Mizan-Tepi, and Bonga universities. The study employed a
cross-sectional research design incorporating both qualitative and quantitative. Primary data was
collected through questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The total sample size was
determined using the Kothari formula, then 372 students,368 teachers, and 12 library ICT and
Registrar directors were selected using simple random and purposive sampling techniques
respectively. The study found that digitalization had a significant positive impact on student
learning outcomes, engagement and motivation, personal learning effectiveness, and overall
learning experience in the selected universities. Additionally, digitalization helped enhance
teaching methods and made learning more engaging and interactive. However, the study also
identified several challenges such as a lack of digital infrastructure, inadequate training, digital
illiteracy, insufficient attention from institutions, system problems, lack of technical support,
absence of clear guidelines, and policies impeding the integration of digital technologies in higher
education. Respondents highlighted that digitalization would promote greater efficiency,
effectiveness, and productivity in teaching and learning, and foster better communication and
accountability among teachers and students. Most of the teachers (67.5%) and nearly 59.1% of
students agreed that digitalization facilitated access to infinite sources of information, promoted
critical thinking, revealed connections between subjects, and encouraged alternative learning
methods. Universities like Jimma, Bonga, Mizan, and Mettu recognize the potential of technology
and are embracing it to enhance their teaching and learning practices. The study recommends that
digitalization should be considered as a means to enhance the quality of education in universities
in Ethiopia, emphasizing the need for continued investment in digital infrastructure and the
development of digital content.
