The transformation processes taking place in the field of education under the influence of digital technologies pose the problem of studying its new adaptive properties. The key direction of engineering of the educational process is the formation and maintaining a developing educational environment, which is characterized by dynamism, flexibility and resilience. Structural changes reflect shifts in communicative environments and information fields. The article analyzes the data of a sociological survey of Peter the Great SPbPU students, revealing a positive attitude of students to the process of digitalization. The problem of identifying the accompanying contradictory moments of transformation of the educational space is noted. As a baseline vulnerability, based on surveys, there was a lack of student readiness to increase the share of independent learning and to change the role of the teacher. The conclusion is made in favor of the development of nonlinear educational models and trends that implement a flexible dynamic approach to the educational environment in response to the action of factors - rising students' expectations and high market demands.