The conference, which this year is being held at INN University in collaboration with international partners, highlights how digital technology is fundamentally changing higher education, continuing education and professional training.
ITHET is not just a conference – it is a global laboratory to test and discuss how we can use technology to strengthen learning, quality and inclusion.
Tone Vold, general chair of the conference and associate professor at INN University
Technology as a driving force in higher education
ITHET 2026 focuses on a wide range of topics related to technology in higher education and training. Through plenary lectures, parallel sessions and specialized workshops, the following is discussed:
- digital learning platforms and interactive learning environments
- new forms of assessment, including digital exams and teaching analytics
- use of artificial intelligence and adaptive technology in teaching
- lifelong learning and flexible education courses
- facilitation of education in crisis management and emergency preparedness
As in previous years, ITHET is technically supported by IEEE, and peer-reviewed articles from the conference are submitted for publication in IEEE Xplore, making the conference an important channel for disseminating research results in the field. It is also supported by the Research Council of Norway. In addition, the conference collaborates with Seminar.net, which will primarily be the publication platform for the Scandinavian contributions.
Close connection between research and practice
A distinctive feature of ITHET is the close integration between academic research and concrete teaching practices. In addition to the main programme, the conference hosts several established workshops, including:
- PRASAE – Peer Review, Peer Assessment, and Self Assessment in Education.
- IEETeL – Interactive Environments and Emerging Technologies for eLearning.
- CMT– Training for crisis management and crisis preparedness.
These workshops have their own thematic profiles and peer processes, but are integrated into the conference programme and give participants the opportunity to delve into specific issues.
“Through these sessions, teachers, developers, researchers and students can meet across disciplines and sectors. This is where new ideas arise, and this is where good solutions gain a foothold,” says Vold.
The importance of ITHET
The organizers emphasise that the need for venues like ITHET has never been greater. Digitalization, globalization and rapid changes in working life mean that higher education institutions are in the midst of a comprehensive restructuring process.
Among the reasons for a conference like ITHET being crucial, according to the programme committee are:
- Quality development in education
Research-based knowledge about what actually works in digital education is crucial to avoid technology becoming an end in itself. ITHET helps to promote evidence-based solutions.
- Innovation and knowledge sharing
New teaching methods and tools spread faster when academic communities meet, see concrete examples, and can openly discuss strengths and weaknesses. This year, there are both a physical and digital conference, due to hostilities in communication hubs.
- Preparedness and resilience
Experiences from the pandemic and other crises have shown how vulnerable the education sector can be. The tracks in crisis management and emergency preparedness will highlight how technology can contribute to robust education systems even under extraordinary circumstances. There is also a spotlight on teaching in crisis management and emergency preparedness.
The university as a meeting place
"We are proud to welcome an international academic community to the university and Lillehammer. Here, participants will receive both high academic quality and a framework that invites informal conversations, networking and new collaborations", says Vold.
This time the conference is in hybrid format. Unrest in the world makes it challenging for some to participate physically.
More information about the theme and programme can be found on the conference website. Stay tuned, maybe you would like to participate next year?
Contact
- tone.vold@inn.no
- Phone
- +47 62 43 04 68