The Theoretical Model of Digital Pedagogies and Quality Management in Practically Oriented Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)

Roksana Ulatowska; Łukasz Sułkowski; Svitlana Bilan

doi:10.2478/ijcm-2026-0006

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The Theoretical Model of Digital Pedagogies and Quality Management in Practically Oriented Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)

International Journal of Contemporary Management

Volume 62 (2026): Issue 1 (March 2026)

By: Roksana Ulatowska, Łukasz Sułkowski and Svitlana Bilan

Open Access

|May 2026

Abstract

Purpose

The Industrial Revolution 4.0 and technological development have resulted in a digital transformation. This research aims to build a theoretical model for digital pedagogies and quality management of HEIs with reference to a Finnish university.

Methodology

The qualitative research explored the question: ‘What factors build the theoretical model of digital pedagogies and quality management of HEIs?’ The study was conducted at Laurea University in Helsinki as a single case study. Data collection included document analysis, classroom observations and semi-structured interviews. This provided a multidimensional picture of the changes stemming from digital transformation in learning and quality management.

Findings

The results section discusses the empirical outcomes, supported by direct quotes from interviewees and structured codifications, and a proposition of model dynamics. The study produced a theoretical model of digital pedagogy and quality management in practice-orientated HEIs, consisting of four interrelated nodes: Digital Learning Foundation – the pedagogical and technological basis; Enabling Factors – digital flexibility and learning support facilitating implementation; Institutional Quality Control – ensuring standards through frameworks such as DigCompEdu; and Challenges – pedagogical, technical and economic barriers.

Originality/value

The article presents a new perspective on digital technologies in HEIs. The results offer understanding of how digital pedagogy supports the teaching process and becomes a key element of quality management strategy. The authors provide insights to university authorities, educators and policymakers into how digital transformation affects digital pedagogies and quality management in HEIs.

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Articles in this issue

DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/ijcm-2026-0006 | Journal eISSN: 2449-8939 | Journal ISSN: 2449-8920

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Language: English

Page range: 62 - 74

Published on: May 6, 2026

Published by: Jagiellonian University

In partnership with: Paradigm Publishing Services

Publication frequency: 1 issue per year

Keywords:

higher education institutions,

digital transformation,

digital transition of HEIs,

digital pedagogies,

quality management

Related subjects:

Business and economics,

Business management,

Management, organization, corporate governance,

Business management, other,

Industries,

Non profit organizations (NPO), foundations, charities, associations,

Public sector, public private partnerships, public administration

© 2026 Roksana Ulatowska, Łukasz Sułkowski, Svitlana Bilan, published by Jagiellonian University
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 License.

Volume 62 (2026): Issue 1 (March 2026)