HTUx: An Online Learning-Platform Model Targeting the Arab Youth

Digital transformation (DX) in higher education is an organizational, social, and technological change that is rapidly modifying teaching methodologies, expected learning outcomes, and educational platforms. With the exponential growth in volatility, uncertainty, and ambiguity facing graduates, the current education system is ripe for disruption. Universities are facing existential threats with the growth of global online learning platforms. To develop and implement a sustainable education management strategy, Arab universities must build a competitive advantage by exploring synergies to achieve a massive transformational purpose targeting the Arab region to empower a significant percentage of the 100 million Arab youth with the required skills and knowledge needed in the fast-changing global market. Al Hussein Technical University (HTU) is a young university that continues to adapt itself to the ever-changing regional and global environments. Therefore, HTU is launching its digital twin, HTUx, an online learning platform with unique six-month-long pathways built on a stackable-course methodology. From a university perspective, the aim of HTUx is to develop a brand reputation with an innovative and student-centered approach. This chapter will explore available online learning platforms with Arabic content for Engineering and Information Technology programs and will describe the strategic, operations, market, and technology dimensions for launching HTUx as a case study.