Online learning platforms in higher education : Mapping the current landscape and future trajectory
Abstract
Online learning platforms are now central to higher education and raise important questions about quality, equity, and institutional readiness. This paper presents a scoping review of the literature on the current landscape and future trajectory of online learning platforms in higher education. Following the five-stage framework established by Arksey and O’Malley, the review maps the literature across five thematic domains: engaging learners while maintaining quality, challenges facing online learning platform users, equity and access across socio-economic groups, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), and how traditional institutions are responding. The review drew on over 30 peer-reviewed sources identified through iterative keyword searches of major academic databases. The findings show that effective online learning requires attention to engagement, community, and authentic assessment. Infrastructure gaps, digital literacy disparities, and socio-economic inequality limit equitable access for many learners. AI and ML offer opportunities for personalised and adaptive instruction, although their benefits depend on thoughtful implementation and ethical oversight. Traditional institutions are navigating the transition through pedagogical reform, investment in technology, and blended learning models. Established open and distance education providers offer important lessons for institutions still managing this transition. Emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality offer possibilities for immersive and collaborative learning, although accessibility and equity concerns require attention. The review concludes that the potential of online learning platforms to advance inclusive and equitable quality education, consistent with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, will depend on intentional design, equitable access, and sustained institutional commitment. Implications are identified for educators, policy makers, and institutions involved in online education.This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.
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Author's Biography
Anshuman Khare is a Professor of Operations Management at Athabasca University, Canada, where he has served since January 2000. He is an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow and has completed two postdoctoral terms at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität in Mainz, Germany. He is also a former Monbusho Scholar, having undertaken a postdoctoral assignment at Ryukoku University in Kyoto, Japan. Over the years, Anshuman has published several books and numerous research papers spanning a wide range of topics. His research focuses, among other areas, on the digital transformation of business and the evolution of online business education. In recent years, he has developed a strong interest in how advances in artificial intelligence (AI) can elevate teaching, learning, and assessment. He is particularly drawn to AI’s potential to personalise learning pathways, enhance student engagement, and support faculty in designing more adaptive, data-informed pedagogical models. He continues to explore how responsible and well-governed AI adoption can strengthen the future of higher education.
Kam Jugdev is a Professor in the Faculty of Business at Athabasca University, Canada, specialising in project management and strategy. She joined Athabasca University in 2003 following a career as a project manager. She holds a joint PhD from the Schulich School of Engineering and Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP®). Kam’s research examines project management from strategic and operational perspectives, with particular interests in competitive advantage, lessons learned, and project success and failure. She has secured research funding from the Project Management Institute and other sources, and publishes in leading project management journals, as well as serving as a collections editor for applied management books. One of Kam’s greatest professional satisfactions is mentoring students at the undergraduate, MBA, and doctoral levels in AU’s online learning environment.
Citation
Khare, Anshuman and Jugdev, Kam (2026, June 1). Online learning platforms in higher education : Mapping the current landscape and future trajectory. In the Advances in Online Education: A Peer-Reviewed Journal, Volume 4, Issue 4. https://doi.org/10.69554/WCKE8297.
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