CHALLENGES AND TECHNOLOGICAL INCLUSION IN HIGHER EDUCATION OF THE 21ST CENTURY

Purpose: Examining progress and developments in education aimed at developing digital skills and addressing contemporary demands of society, a multifaceted and ever-changing landscape is envisaged. From various perspectives and standpoints, efforts are made to find answers for a diverse and globalised society, characterised by ongoing social changes and constantly evolving tensions. Methodology: The methodology of the article is grounded in the reflective qualitative method. Sánchez Silva (2005) defines it as follows: "The reflective tradition privileges values, norms, and creates behavior patterns that favor an analytical and critical attitude aimed at reviewing and evaluating ideas, assumptions, theories, and conventional methods" (p.116). Moreover, according to Edmund Husserl (cited by Menéndez, 2012), reflection is fundamental in phenomenology, analyzing experiences in an organized way as one of its main tasks Results and Conclusions: The findings reveal a global and national trend towards advancing technology and enhancing competitiveness in both academic and professional realms. This trend is reflected in the adoption of innovative strategies and the fostering of relevant skills in various educational and corporate contexts. Moreover, there is an increase in collaboration between educational institutions and businesses, promoting a more participatory and collaborative approach to education and professional development. These initiatives align with sustainable development goals as they aim to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth, as well as foster equal opportunities and innovation across society. Implications: This research provides implications for educational and government policy to continue to strengthen inclusion policies in higher education.


INTRODUCTION
In the fast-paced and dynamic context of the 21st century, higher education is facing a series of unprecedented challenges and opportunities.At the heart of this evolution lies the integration of technology, a phenomenon that is radically transforming the way teaching and learning are conducted in educational institutions worldwide.The inclusion of technology in higher education not only involves the introduction of digital tools in the classroom but also raises fundamental questions about equity, access, and the quality of education.
In this introduction, we will explore the challenges and opportunities associated with the integration of technology in 21st-century higher education.From expanding access to education to improving the learning experience, and preparing for an increasingly digitized job market, we will analyze how technology is transforming the educational landscape and what obstacles must be overcome to ensure effective inclusion.(Zorec et al., 2022) The exponential advancement of digital technology has revolutionized every aspect of modern society, and education is no exception.In higher education, technology has permeated every facet of the educational process, from administration and teaching to research and learning.Educational institutions have adopted a wide range of technological tools, including learning management systems, online resources, simulations, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, among others, to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and accessibility of education.Salmi & D'Addio (2021).However, the integration of technology in higher education is not without significant challenges.Among the main obstacles are: Digital Divide and Access Inequality: Despite technological advancements, significant Lack of face-to-face interaction, student autonomy, and limited supervision can affect motivation, engagement, and academic performance in virtual environments.Ensuring the quality of online learning requires careful instructional design, effective engagement strategies, and formative assessments to maintain high academic standards.
Privacy and Data Security: The widespread use of technology in higher education also raises concerns about the privacy and security of student data.Mass data collection through learning management systems, educational apps, and online platforms can expose students' personal and academic information to cybersecurity risks and privacy violations.Protecting the confidentiality and integrity of student data is essential to ensure trust and ethics in the use of educational technology.
Opportunities and Transformative Potential: Despite these challenges, the integration of technology in higher education also presents significant opportunities to improve equity, quality, and efficiency in education.Some of these opportunities include: Expanded Access and Flexibility: Technology can eliminate geographical and temporal barriers, allowing access to higher education to a more diverse and global population.Online learning and digital resources provide flexibility for students to learn at their own pace and tailor their education to their individual needs.This is especially beneficial for non-traditional students, such as those with work or family responsibilities.Therefore, the integration of technology in 21st-century higher education is a complex and multifaceted process that poses a series of challenges and opportunities.While technology has the potential to democratize access to education, improve learning quality, and prepare students for a digital future, it also faces obstacles in terms of equity, quality, privacy, and security.
To overcome these challenges and fully harness the opportunities offered by technology, a holistic and inclusive approach is needed that considers the needs and perspectives of all stakeholders involved, including students, educators, administrators, and policymakers.This involves investing in technological infrastructure, providing professional development for educators, designing equitable and secure learning experiences, and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration in the educational field.(Bernate & Vargas, 2020) Ultimately, the successful integration of technology in higher education will require continuous commitment to improvement and constant adaptation as technologies and educational needs evolve.Only through a collaborative and future-oriented approach can we ensure that 21st-century higher education is truly inclusive, equitable, and prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
The effective integration of technology in 21st-century higher education poses a series of challenges and opportunities that require a carefully designed approach to maximize its impact.To understand these challenges and address them effectively, it is necessary to examine a variety of perspectives and relevant studies in the field of educational technology.One of the However, despite the potential for technology to enhance education, its effective implementation in the classroom often faces significant obstacles.Chao et al., (2012) offers a critical view of this issue in his work "Overcoming oversold and underused: Computers in the classroom", where he explores why the full potential of technology in education is often not realized.This work highlights the need to address institutional and cultural challenges that may hinder successful integration of technology in higher education.
One key area of research in the field of educational technology is the design and delivery of online learning programs.Hill & Smith (2023), provide a strong conceptual framework for implementing blended learning in their work "Blended learning in higher education: Framework, principles, and guidelines".This framework emphasizes the importance of effectively combining online and face-to-face learning to create enriching and student-centered educational experiences.Furthermore, assessing learning in digital environments is an important issue that requires careful attention.Gikandi et al., (2011) examine online formative assessment in higher education in their study "Online formative assessment in higher education: A review of the literature", highlighting how technology can enhance feedback and student progress monitoring.However, they also point out the challenges and ethical considerations associated with this practice, underscoring the need for a reflective and careful approach in designing assessment strategies in digital environments.
As online education continues to grow in popularity and relevance, it is crucial to understand how to design effective and high-quality online learning experiences.Picciano (2018) offers a comprehensive introduction to this topic in his book "Online education: Foundations, planning, and pedagogy", exploring theoretical foundations, design models, and best pedagogical practices for online teaching in higher education.This work provides invaluable guidance for educators and instructional designers seeking to create effective educational experiences in digital environments.
Despite the challenges and obstacles associated with integrating technology into higher education, there is broad consensus on its potential to enhance teaching and learning.Iniesto et al., (2022) offers a retrospective view of this issue in his work "25 years of EdTech", examining the evolution of educational technology over the past decades.This work highlights how technological advances have transformed higher education and offers insights into addressing emerging challenges in this field.
Therefore, the field of educational technology offers a variety of relevant perspectives and studies that inform the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating technology into 21st-century higher education.By integrating this knowledge and perspectives, educators can develop effective approaches to harness the potential of technology to improve teaching and learning in higher education.

METODOLOGY
The methodology of the article is grounded in the reflective qualitative method.Sánchez Silva (2005) defines it as follows: "The reflective tradition privileges values, norms, and creates behavior patterns that favor an analytical and critical attitude aimed at reviewing and evaluating ideas, assumptions, theories, and conventional methods" (p.116).Moreover, according to Edmund Husserl (cited by Menéndez, 2012), reflection is fundamental in phenomenology, analyzing experiences in an organized way as one of its main tasks.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The importance of educational innovation becomes evident in teaching and learning processes.This requires an understanding of the digital world, which presents diverse and constantly changing characteristics.This understanding is manifested in various contemporary learning environments.Bernate et al., (2024) Consequently, the need for comprehensive teachers who provide a variety of tools to students is highlighted.In this sense, pedagogy emerges as a crucial element in addressing students' individual differences and needs.
Educational transformation occurs in the process itself, but always keeping in mind the humanity and essence of each individual.
According to Del Arco et al., (2019) there is a great appreciation for the opportunity to integrate technologies into the educational sphere and develop competencies applicable in various professional environments.However, they argue that information and communication technologies (ICT) are not the only key element in facilitating learning.In this sense, the role of the teacher is fundamental.The teacher must possess a level of knowledge and mastery of quality technological tools, but they must also consider the student and their prior knowledge.The current changes, known as the 4.0 revolution, are transforming all sectors through the incorporation of new technologies.This transformation involves the reduction of physical factors in processes, the generation of automated services that eliminate the need for human labor, and an increase in the performance of resources, both material and human.(Bernate & Fonseca, 2023) Faced with this industrial revolution, two perspectives can be adopted: as a crisis or as an opportunity.If we look at history, we see that there has been evolution, but looking towards the future, fears arise.Thus, the question arises: ¿How can we prepare citizens for this new world?It is crucial to address this challenge from a solid foundation, overcoming fear and insecurity.
It is in this context that STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) emerges, a model that is being implemented in various educational institutions to restructure and guide the educational system.This approach provides tools to solve current challenges, which require understanding the digital world and its integration with the traditional education that still prevails in many places around the world.(Catana et al., 2019;Bernate & Fonseca, 2023) STEAM education focuses on preparing people for the rapid arrival and evolution of the digital age in our lives.It seeks to transform the information and data generated by this industrial revolution into educational processes that will be necessary in the coming years.As Useche & Vargas (2019) point out, given the growing interest in a holistic education that integrates the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), it is essential to strive for the construction of pedagogical practices that move in this direction.
Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) stands out as a significant trend in the contemporary and postmodern educational landscape.This approach involves presenting stimuli and emotional challenges that prompt students to address real and relevant problematic situations.
CBL actively engages students in the pursuit of practical solutions, linking the environment as a tangible challenge and fostering the implementation of concrete solutions.As noted by Olivares & Valdez (2018), CBL represents a learning opportunity in which students collaborate, under the guidance of the teacher, to address relevant problems and propose practical solutions.9 Furthermore, it is crucial to recognize how these trends are transforming and enhancing educational processes at all levels of education.Therefore, efforts must be directed towards managing these processes, as it is in this area where the scopes and effects of educational needs are planned.In this context, school leadership plays a fundamental role in promoting continuous improvements in educational processes.This involves optimizing and expanding infrastructure, developing new educational programs, increased involvement of families, organizational improvements in planning, promoting teamwork, integration of information and communication technologies (ICT), and continuous teacher training, among other actions, as highlighted by Rodríguez et al., (2020).
One of the most prominent technological trends in the educational field is the gamification model, which uses games as a tool to foster students' conceptual development at any educational level.This approach, explained through the R.A.M.P. Model (Model of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations) developed by Andrezj Marczewski, focuses on four key elements inherent to the learning process within educational activities, using games as a primary element to achieve the necessary knowledge.(Queiros & Pinto, 2022) Firstly, there is relationship, which seeks to generate a sense of belonging in what the student does, fostering the construction of social connections and the sharing of experiences.
The second element is purpose, which cultivates altruism and a sense of community by encouraging students to help themselves and others through their actions in the game.The third dimension is mastery, which involves learning and improving performance in specific areas to achieve a high level of personal competence.Finally, autonomy promotes creative freedom in tasks, but within a framework of responsibility and control.(Qian & Clark, 2016) Game-Based Learning (GBL) enhances various elements in the student population and emerges as a relevant educational trend in the 21st century.This approach not only serves as a pedagogical strategy to address the social and cultural challenges of society but also encourages students to choose the less easy path, as it is recognized that learning outcomes are more meaningful when facing more complex challenges.
A highly valued trend by modern educators is the flipped classroom model, which integrates seamlessly with 21st-century educational trends.This model, which had its beginnings in the 1990s, arises in response to the needs of society at that time and is based on four fundamental pillars.
Firstly, there is the pillar of flexible environment, which refers to the importance of having spacious and specific spaces within the educational institution that allow for the full development of learning in each of its areas.The learning culture is the second pillar, focusing The third key is global connectivism, which emphasizes the importance of students sharing their tasks, ideas, and resources through online platforms such as blogs and academic social networks.Lastly, trusting students and fostering self-assessment as an inherent part of the learning process, removing obstacles and promoting students' own responsibility.
The challenge of education is not limited solely to addressing social, educational, and cultural issues; it transcends into the political realm.This is because budgetary concerns and regulatory frameworks have a significant impact on the education system and often require national-level constitutional reforms.(Bernate, 2021) Political decisions regarding the budget allocated to education directly affect the quality and accessibility of teaching.Furthermore, government regulations and policies influence key aspects such as the school curriculum, teacher training, educational infrastructure, and equal opportunities for all students.(Zahorodnia et al., 2023) Therefore, to effectively address educational challenges, it is crucial to consider the political context in which the education system operates.This involves working in collaboration with relevant political actors to ensure that adequate resources are allocated, effective policies are implemented, and necessary reforms are promoted to improve the quality and equity in education.

CONCLUSIONS
In the rapidly evolving landscape of 21st-century higher education, the integration of technology presents both unprecedented challenges and opportunities.From enhancing access to education to reshaping the learning experience and preparing students for a digital future, technology is fundamentally reshaping the educational paradigm.
While technology offers immense potential to democratize education and improve learning outcomes, significant hurdles must be addressed.Issues such as the digital divide, resistance to change among educators, concerns about the quality of online learning, and privacy and data security risks pose significant challenges to effective technology integration.Despite these challenges, technology integration in higher education offers transformative potential.Opportunities include expanded access and flexibility, personalized learning experiences, global collaboration, and innovative pedagogical approaches.These opportunities have the power to enrich the educational experience and better prepare students for success in the digital age.
Overcoming the challenges and maximizing the opportunities presented by technology integration requires a holistic and collaborative approach.This involves investing in technological infrastructure, providing ongoing professional development for educators, ensuring equitable access to digital resources, and prioritizing student privacy and data security.
By embracing innovation and collaboration, higher education institutions can harness the full potential of technology to create inclusive, equitable, and effective learning environments.Moreover, it is essential to recognize that the challenges and opportunities in higher education are not isolated from the political realm.Political decisions, including budget allocations and regulatory frameworks, profoundly impact the education system.Therefore, effective solutions require collaboration between educational stakeholders and policymakers to ensure that resources are allocated equitably and policies are designed to promote quality and accessibility in education.
disparities persist in access to technology and internet connectivity.Digital divides based on socioeconomic, geographic, and cultural factors may exclude certain groups of students from ___________________________________________________________________________ Rev. Gest.Soc.Ambient.| Miami | v.18.n.8 | p.1-13 | e08524 | 2024.4 the benefits of digital education, perpetuating existing inequalities.The lack of adequate access to devices and reliable internet connection can hinder online learning and limit educational opportunities for those in disadvantaged environments.Resistance to Change and Teacher Training: The effective adoption of technology in higher education requires not only adequate technological infrastructure but also a receptive mindset towards educational innovation by educators.Resistance to change and lack of technology training can hinder the successful integration of digital tools in the classroom.Teachers need support and continuous professional development to acquire the skills necessary to effectively use technology in their pedagogical practice.Quality and Effectiveness of Online Learning: While online learning offers flexibility and accessibility, it also poses challenges in terms of quality and educational effectiveness.
Personalization and Adaptation: Technological tools enable personalized learning, adapting content, delivery, and assessment to each student's specific preferences and needs.Artificial intelligence and machine learning can analyze student progress and preferences to offer personalized recommendations and adaptive activities that maximize learning and retention.Collaboration and Global Connection: Technology facilitates online collaboration and connection among students, educators, and institutions worldwide.Collaborative learning platforms, virtual teamwork environments, and academic social networks foster interaction and knowledge exchange beyond physical and cultural borders, enriching the educational experience and preparing students for an interconnected world.Pedagogical Innovation and Experimentation: Technology opens up new possibilities for pedagogical innovation and educational experimentation.From gamification and augmented reality to simulation and virtual reality, digital tools offer creative and effective ways to teach and learn complex concepts.Educators can experiment with student-centered pedagogical approaches, such as project-based learning and user experience-centered instructional design.
Challenges and Technological Inclusion in Higher Education of the 21st Century ___________________________________________________________________________ Rev. Gest.Soc.Ambient.| Miami | v.18.n.8 | p.1-13 | e08524 | 2024.6 seminal works in this area is "Teaching in a digital age" Keshavarz & Ghoneim, (2021) which provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating technology into teaching and learning.Additionally, the importance of considering how digital technologies can transform the educational experience and enhance the quality of learning in higher education is emphasized.
Challenges and Technological Inclusion in Higher Education of the 21st Century ___________________________________________________________________________ Rev. Gest.Soc.Ambient.| Miami | v.18.n.8 | p.1-13 | e08524 | 2024.8 Their role is to guide in the appropriate use of transformation strategies, which requires constant training and updating about emerging trends in society.This constant adaptation allows for the generation of effective strategies to address significant changes, especially regarding students' extrinsic motivations and emotions.
___________________________________________________________________________ Rev. Gest.Soc.Ambient.| Miami | v.18.n.8 | p.1-13 | e08524 | 2024.10 on fostering in students an intrinsic interest in each activity, beyond obtaining grades or meeting academic requirements.The third pillar is directed content, which implies an active role by the teacher within the classroom, leading discussions on topics of interest to students and avoiding segmenting or limiting the topics covered.Finally, the professional facilitator seeks the continuous evolution of learning and is committed to the constant improvement of educational practices.This model is characterized by being comprehensive, dynamic, and effective, promoting complete learning both inside and outside the classroom.As recommended by Valdes et al., (2019), compared to the traditional model, teachers work more closely with students and can adapt the teaching-learning process to the individual needs of each one.To implement this model effectively, Canadian educator Ken Baver from the Tecnológico de Monterrey suggests four main keys.Firstly, active learning, which does not necessarily imply that the teacher has absolute control of the classroom.Next, getting to know the students, interacting more with them to understand their interests, fears, dreams, and individual characteristics.(Torecilla,2018)