The purpose of this literature review is to present a research-informed summary of the ways in which learning technologies change teaching and learning experiences in higher education. The following is necessarily a selective rather than an exhaustive review of promising learning technology designs in higher education. The rationale for this review is derived from the purpose of the Learning Technologies Task Force, which is to develop a strategic framework for high quality learning experiences at the University of Calgary that are enhanced and enabled by technology. An overview of promising and emerging practices from the research literature on using learning technologies to create outstanding learning experiences in contemporary higher education contexts is provided.