14 October 2024 | London, England

This article first appeared on Forbes.com on 4 October, 2024: link

In the era of rapid technological advancement, the interconnected college campus of the future needs a future-proofed network, designed to meet the evolving and unique needs of students and staff.

A huge shift towards creating the campus of the future is already underway. Eighty-two percent of academic institutions are planning to upgrade technology in classrooms. This includes integrating wireless sharing capabilities, ensuring convenient Wi-Fi and outlet access across common areas, as well as embedding video/audio in classrooms’ tables and walls with flexible layouts.

Students are at the heart of the modern educational experience, where high-speed internet access in dorms and across campus ranks close to academic quality and campus safety in importance for college life. A new survey commissioned by Apogee Telecom and conducted by Mantis Research revealed that 85% of students experienced internet issues over the last year, with 73% of those reporting a significant impact on their well-being and academic performance. Moreover, 11% of students said they would move off campus if the internet on their campus was not reliable.  

Emerging tech like AI, AR/VR, and IoT promise to transform campus life well beyond academics. Upgraded wireless networks will enable innovations in food services and student housing, including robotic deliveries food-filtering dining apps, and app-controlled access for increased privacy and security. Yet, understanding their effects on cybersecurity, convenience, and user experience is crucial before implementation.

Technologies shaping the campus of the future

AI, AR/VR and IoT promise to revolutionise educational environments by boosting student engagement and operational efficiency. Leveraging these technologies to their maximum potential will be crucial to developing interconnected campuses. Let’s explore each one.

Reimagining the campus with AI

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to transform the campus in multiple ways:

• AI chatbots and virtual assistants: These tools can provide 24/7 student services, ensuring that students receive assistance whenever they need it.
• Data analysis: AI can analyse vast amounts of campus data to predict maintenance needs. It can also be a powerful tool for minimising energy consumption, by detecting usage patterns and recommending measures to save energy.
• GenAI tools: Applications like ChatGPT can facilitate the efficient creation of lesson plans and admissions feedback.
• Customised learning: AI platforms can tailor educational experiences to individual student needs, based on existing patterns from previous work.
• AI-enabled video analytics: AI can be used in video security systems, to monitor campus premises in real-time, enhancing overall security.

Interactive experiences with VR/AR technologies

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies offer students interactive experiences that can significantly enhance their learning and campus life:

• Virtual tours: Both current and prospective students can explore the campus virtually, providing a detailed view of the site without the need for a physical visit.
• Learning enhancement: Complex subjects become easier to understand through virtualization, making abstract concepts more tangible and accessible.
• Practical training: VR and AR can be used for training in high-risk fields such as surgery or architectural modelling, allowing students to practise without real-world risks.

IoT for Smarter Campuses

IoT will also play a crucial role in creating smarter campuses:

• Touchscreen displays in classrooms: These will provide interactive and dynamic educational tools to improve learning.
• Cashless transactions: Smartphone apps will facilitate seamless, cashless transactions across the campus
• Real-time parking availability: IoT sensors will help students and staff find available parking spaces efficiently.
• Smart waste bins: These will enhance campus cleanliness and waste management, by monitoring for when bins are close to becoming full and alerting maintenance teams.
• Optimised energy use: IoT-enabled HVAC systems will ensure energy is used efficiently, reducing wastage and overconsumption.

How higher education IT departments can prepare

IT departments within higher education facilities must prepare for the increase in data demands that emerging technologies will bring on top of their already astronomical use of the internet, by upgrading network and connectivity infrastructures. For example, intent-based networking (IBN) can replace manual configurations with automated, controller-led operations to orchestrate performance across Wi-Fi access, WANs and the cloud.

Fundamentally, a student-centred approach to network design is crucial, with managed Wi-Fi services allowing students to connect any devices seamlessly and use services like wireless printing or streaming without hassle. According to the survey referenced above, on average, students are bringing 3.5 internet-connected devices to their residence hall (up to eight total) and 90% of students want to connect at least 2 devices simultaneously.

IT departments must tackle new complex security risks alongside network performance. With 50% of students considering that the internet on their campus is only somewhat secure, a revamped cybersecurity strategy is vital. AI can assist in sifting through massive amounts of data to identify unusual patterns that may signal a cyber-attack, but that’s just a start; comprehensive measures including multi-factor authentication, secure Wi-Fi, advanced firewalls, and multi-layered defences are necessary. Partnering with experienced vendors to create robust, customised campus security solutions is critical.

Creating the campus of the future, today

Emerging technologies promise to enhance user experience on college campuses. However, it is crucial to partner with experts to customise network infrastructure and plan for the future. It’s clear that more devices, more connections, and more data are inevitable.

By embracing these technologies thoughtfully and strategically, underpinned by robust and future-proofed networks, campuses can create a connected and dynamic environment that supports the academic and personal growth of their students.