ETIH Innovation Awards 2026: spotlight on Best Use of EdTech in Higher Education
This category recognizes higher education institutions using EdTech to transform teaching, learning, research, or operations.
We’re continuing our series exploring each category in the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026, taking a closer look at what the judges expect and what makes a strong submission.
This edition focuses on Best Use of EdTech in Higher Education, a category celebrating universities and higher education institutions that have embedded technology in ways that meaningfully improve the student or faculty experience. Entries should demonstrate innovation alongside measurable institutional impact.
What this category covers
This category highlights real-world implementation of EdTech within universities and higher education institutions. Eligible entries must be submitted by institutions rather than vendors and should focus on how technology is used in practice to support teaching, research, or operations.
Entries may include examples of:
digital platforms supporting teaching and learning
AI-enabled tools used in instruction, assessment, or student support
data-driven approaches to learning analytics or retention
virtual, blended, or hybrid learning models
systems improving administrative efficiency or student services
research platforms or digital collaboration tools
institution-wide EdTech strategies or transformation programs
professional development supported by digital tools
What judges will look for
Judges will assess how effectively EdTech has been embedded and whether it has led to meaningful, measurable improvements.
Entries should address:
the challenge or opportunity the institution aimed to address
how EdTech was selected, implemented, and scaled
evidence of improved student learning, engagement, or retention
improvements in faculty experience, research capability, or productivity
operational efficiencies such as time savings or improved workflows
staff and student feedback on usability and impact
lessons learned during adoption and change management
Strong submissions will balance strategic vision with practical outcomes.
How to strengthen your submission
Entrants are encouraged to provide detailed case studies outlining their EdTech journey. Judges value transparency around implementation challenges, governance, and how adoption barriers were addressed.
Submissions will be strengthened by:
before-and-after comparisons using clear metrics
quantitative data on retention, attainment, or efficiency
direct feedback from students, faculty, or professional services teams
evidence of scalability across departments or campuses
Showing how EdTech supports long-term institutional improvement will strengthen the submission.
Why enter this category
Best Use of EdTech in Higher Education offers institutions an opportunity to showcase thoughtful, evidence-led use of technology at scale. Shortlisted entries will be featured on edtechinnovationhub.com and across ETIH channels, reaching higher education leaders, policymakers, and sector stakeholders.
Entries are reviewed by an independent judging panel with expertise across higher education, digital transformation, pedagogy, and EdTech. Many institutions find the submission process valuable for reflecting on impact and sharing best practice.
How to enter
To enter, download an entry form or submit via the link below. The entry deadline is Friday, 27 March 2026. The shortlist will be announced on Tuesday, 2 April 2026, and winners will be revealed on Monday, 27 April 2026.
Entry costs £80 per submission, or £150 for two or more entries. Payment can be made via our website. Once your entry form and payment have been received, confirmation will be sent by email.
For questions or further information, please contact Director of Content Emma Thompson.
