EDUCAUSE 2025 Reflections: Share Your Takeaways

[KristinL]

EDUCAUSE may be over, but the conversations don't have to stop!

Let’s reflect on what we learned, debated, and discovered together:

• What’s your biggest EDUCAUSE takeaway, and how do you think it will shape higher education in 2026 and beyond?
• Which themes stood out most this year? Was it AI, student experience, data-informed learning, or something else entirely?
• After a week of incredible discussions, what’s one change you’d like to see in how we approach learning innovation?
• If you could summarize EDUCAUSE 2025 in one word, what would it be? Why?
• Which conversations do you hope continue beyond the conference?

Whether you attended in Nashville or followed along on social (or hope to participate virtually), your insights and reflections matter. Share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with Higher Ed peers in the discussion!

Give this thread a like and share with your social networks with #EDU25 and tag @instructure to build the excitement about EDUCAUSE!

[SherriaNettles · Accepted solution]

My biggest takeaway from EDUCAUSE 2025 is the renewed focus on human-centered innovation—especially how technology can empower, not replace, meaningful learning experiences. The sessions on ethical AI and student data privacy really resonated with me. It’s clear that higher ed is moving beyond flashy tools and toward intentional design that supports equity, agency, and lifelong learning.

In 2026 and beyond, I believe this shift will lead to more inclusive digital ecosystems, where students are co-creators of their learning journeys. Institutions will need to rethink how they measure success—not just through outcomes, but through engagement, belonging, and adaptability.

EDUCAUSE reminded me that innovation isn’t just about what’s new—it’s about what’s right for learners.