Enrollment woes could push colleges to use AI and data analytics

Colleges may need to lean more on artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to curb the effects of a declining number of traditional-age students, as well as lower levels of state support, according to a new report from Educause. The 2020 Horizon Report pinpoints some of the challenges higher education leaders are facing and how emerging technology may be able to help.  AI and data analytics could aid institutions in finding new pockets of prospective students and help them be more successful while in college, the report's authors write. AI and data analytics, among other newer technologies, are already reshaping how colleges interact with students and potential recruits, the report's authors note.