Parallel Session 1: Technology and Digital Transformation in Glocalized Education

Tuesday 21 October 2025
11:00 – 12:30
Thaksin University

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The ‘Glocalisation’: Functional Role of Higher Education from Local to Global

Sub-themes in focus: Technology and Digital Transformation in Glocalized Education

What: Roundtable Discussion: Plenary Session

Overview: In these sessions we will explore the sub-themes for the Congress through a range of short presentations leading into round table discussions.

Each parallel session will have a Chair to facilitate the discussion and we hope the conversations might spark areas for future WTUN collaboration and workstream developments.

Chair: TBC

Speakers:

• Dr Kanida Sinmai, Director of the Institute of Learning Resources and Digital Technology, Thaksin University
• Dr Ramalingam Dharmalingam, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Information Technology, Majan University College
• Dr Regina Aichinger, Vice-President Quality & Diversity, University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria
• Dr Sirilak Chumkiew, School of Biology, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology
• Professor Abdulla Al Hawaj, Chairperson for the Board of Trustees, Ahlia University

Joining Details: TBC

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Dr Kanida Sinmai

‘Bridging the Digital Divide in Thai Higher Education: Glocal Strategies for Inclusive Digital Transformation’

As higher education in Thailand moves toward comprehensive digital transformation, universities face the critical challenge of delivering learning that is locally meaningful while meeting global academic standards. Disparities in access to technology highlight the urgent need for “glocal” strategies that integrate global best practices with local context. This presentation will share the experience of the Institute of Learning Resources and Digital Technology at Thaksin University in building inclusive, resilient digital infrastructure and services. Our approach includes adapting international content to local needs, supporting bilingual resources, developing accessible technologies for all learners, and systematically strengthening digital literacy among faculty and students.

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Dr Ramalingam Dharmalingam

‘Towards Seamless Global Learning: A Blockchain-Enabled Credit Transfer Framework to Foster Equity and Mobility’

The present higher education system is influenced by the concurrent need to meet local demands while embracing global advancements. However, existing inefficiencies in credit transfer systems and the unequal recognition of prior learning (RPL) continue to obstruct student mobility across various higher education institutions (HEIs). This also reinforces educational disparities across regional and demographic segments.

This study presents a transformative paradigm aimed at enabling seamless credit transfer among higher education institutions (HEIs). The concept emphasises the incorporation of blockchain technology, which securely stores, verifies, and transfers academic credits among member institutions and other relevant stakeholders. The architecture allows students to pursue any subject from any recognised HEI—either online or in person—and earn credits that are universally acknowledged within the network. Upon reaching the required number of credits for a defined qualification, students will be eligible to receive their degree from the institution where they have gained and accumulated the most credits in their selected area of specialisation.

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Dr Regina Aichinger

‘The impact of interdisciplinary approaches in developing technology-driven Higher Education Institutions’

The presentation focuses on the question to which extent interdisciplinary research approaches can support the design of technology-driven education within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). 

With a theory-based approach from the perspective of interdisciplinary higher education research, the demands of glocalization, competition and digital transformation which affect HEIs will first be addressed. In this sense, the term “glo-na-cal” and the impact of globalization and internationalization will be explained in particular.

In this context, HEIs are highlighted as ambivalent/ambiguous players in a highly competitive, glo-na-cal environment. Subsequently, challenges and opportunities, especially in a global competition for knowledge acquisition, generation and transfer, will be discussed. 

In transition to the practical feasibility of strategies for implementing a glo-na-cal-oriented higher education position, analysis and design options in terms of different maturity models for the digital transformation of HEIs will be presented. At this point in particular, options for action for an interdisciplinary technology-driven education/curriculum design will be addressed.

At the end of the presentation, based on the approach taken at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, a positioning strategy in a strongly regional and national context will be presented.

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Dr Sirilak Chumkiew

‘Digital Knowledge Transfer for Sustainable Ecotourism: A Case Study of Smart Trail in Klong Plakang, Khao Yai National Park, Thailand’

This study presents a case of digital knowledge transfer in support of sustainable ecotourism, through the implementation of the Klong Plakang Trail application in Khao Yai National Park, Thailand. Developed collaboratively by Suranaree University of Technology, Khao Yai National Park Officers, and the Klong Plakang community, the project promotes Biodiversity education and inclusive conservation practices by leveraging mobile technology. Training sessions were conducted for over 30 participants, including local youth eco-guides, community volunteers, and Khao Yai National Park officers. These sessions focused on how to use the mobile application’s offline map, digital checkpoints, species identification tools, and nature interpretation functions. The application was designed to be multilingual (Thai, English, French) and accessible in remote areas, enabling widespread engagement. Results highlight a successful grassroots-level digital transformation. Youth guides developed new digital competencies, community members became active interpreters of natural heritage, and Khao Yai Natural Park officers integrated the tools into park management. The initiative fostered greater collaboration between academia, government, and community stakeholders, while creating a replicable model for nature-based digital education. The project demonstrates how digital innovation, paired with local participation, can support sustainable tourism and long-term biodiversity conservation.

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Professor Abdulla Al Hawaj

‘AI at the Heart of Innovation – Shaping the Future at Ahlia University’s New Campus’

Ahlia University’s forthcoming Innovative Campus in Salman City marks a strategic step towards redefining the future of higher education in Bahrain. Though still under construction, the campus is already being shaped by artificial intelligence, which is playing a central role in its planning, design and future operations.

Intelligent systems are informing the development of adaptive learning platforms tailored to individual student needs, AI-driven academic advising tools, and predictive analytics that will support student success and institutional decision-making. Smart infrastructure planning is also underway, with AI helping to optimise energy usage, manage facilities efficiently and design responsive learning environments.

Nonetheless, complex challenges come with AI integration. Ethical considerations, data governance, and the evolving role of educators must be navigated with care. The university’s strategy is therefore guided by a commitment to responsible innovation and enhancement of the human dimensions of education.