The Impact of Digital Transformation on Educational Equity in Developing Countries
Keywords:
Digital transformation, educational equity, developing countries, digital literacy, educational policyAbstract
This study aims to examine how digital transformation influences various dimensions of educational equity in developing countries, focusing on technological infrastructure, human empowerment, and educational policymaking. This research employed a qualitative systematic review design. Data were collected from academic databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, ERIC, and Google Scholar. After screening and evaluation, 12 eligible articles were selected for in-depth analysis. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis with NVivo version 14 software. Theoretical saturation was reached after the twelfth article. Extracted data were categorized into three main themes: “Digital Infrastructure and Access,” “Human Empowerment and Digital Literacy,” and “Policymaking and Digital Educational Equity.” The results revealed that digital educational equity in developing countries is influenced by three primary dimensions. Regional digital divides and weak communication infrastructures remain key barriers to equitable access. Moreover, limited digital skills among teachers and gender-based inequalities in technology access hinder fair participation in digital learning. Findings also indicated that fragmented policymaking and the absence of data-driven governance contribute to the reproduction of educational inequities. Nevertheless, emerging technologies and international collaborations hold great potential for reducing educational disparities. Digital transformation offers significant opportunities to promote educational equity if supported by coherent policymaking, sustainable investment, and human capacity-building. Achieving digital educational equity requires a human-centered and data-driven approach that ensures equal access, quality, and learning opportunities for all.
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