Digital Disconnect in Education: The Administrative Challenge of Aligning Rhetoric and Reality in the Implementation of AI-powered and Non-AI digital tools

Abstract

Despite the hype surrounding digital transformation in education, a persistent gap between rhetoric and reality threatens to undermine the promise of technology-enhanced learning. The accelerating pace of artificial intelligence and digital tool development has created a pronounced disconnect where administrative capacities and framework are increasingly hard-pressed to match the speed of technological change. This paper delves into the complex interplay between policy, practice, and technology, exposing the administrative challenges that fuels the digital disconnect. Through a critical examination of the gap between policy rhetoric and implementation reality, this research revealed the need for a more refined understanding of the administrative role in shaping digital initiatives. By highlighting the tensions between technological potential and practical implementation, this paper aimed to spark a critical conversation on the future of digital education and the administrative competencies required to bridge the digital disconnect, the paper concluded that effective alignment of administrative imperatives with technological advancement is crucial to bridge the digital disconnect and harness the full potential of AI and other digital solutions in education. The paper suggested amongst others that educational institutions should invest in developing administrators’ capacity for digital leadership, including training in AI and digital tool implementation.