The Challenges of Implementing EdTech - and the Cost of Missing Out

Education technology (EdTech) refers to the use of technology to support teaching, meet specific learning needs, and improve the management of education institutions. EdTech encompasses both hardware, such as tablets and laptops, and software, including management systems, digital learning platforms, and communication tools. Given the resource and time constraints often present in schools, EdTech provides a unique opportunity to enhance teaching methodologies and extend learning beyond the classroom.

Over recent years, we have witnessed the success of EdTech applications designed to supplement classroom learning. Popular platforms such as Times Tables Rock Stars, Duolingo, Epic!, Kahoot!, and even ChatGPT have gained traction among both students and educators. The Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 accelerated the adoption of EdTech as schools turned to digital tools to maintain learning continuity. Even after the pandemic, the sector has continued to thrive: by 2026, the global EdTech market is projected to reach $460 billion, with a year-on-year growth rate of 16.5% expected until 2030.

In the UK, EdTech remains a major driver of innovation in education. By 2021, there were around 1,200 EdTech businesses in operation, with the market generating up to £4 billion in gross value added (GVA). The UK also leads Europe in EdTech investment, securing $547 million in 2023 alone—three times more than second-placed France. This growing market highlights the enormous potential of EdTech to transform education. However, to fully realise this potential, we must first address the challenges surrounding its implementation.

The Benefits of EdTech: Enhancing Learning and Teaching

1. Extending Learning Beyond the Classroom
EdTech enables students to continue their learning outside of school hours. Unlike traditional homework, digital platforms can provide real-time feedback, helping students reinforce concepts with additional support when needed. For teachers, EdTech reduces the burden of marking and allows them to quickly assess areas that require further focus in class.

2. Gamification of Learning
EdTech enhances student engagement by transforming learning into a more interactive experience. Digital platforms often incorporate leaderboards, rewards, and progress tracking, which can make educational tasks more appealing. Gamification has been shown to improve motivation and encourage students to willingly engage in learning activities.

3. Targeted Interventions for Disadvantaged Students
EdTech has been used to bridge educational gaps, particularly for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. In 2019, the Department for Education (DfE) provided free access to high-quality EdTech apps to families in need, helping to address the four-month attainment gap faced by many children by the age of five.

4. Improved Pupil Attainment
Studies indicate that EdTech can contribute to higher student achievement, particularly in reading and comprehension. A meta-analysis of digital learning in primary schools found that technology-enhanced learning positively impacted all subjects, with the strongest benefits observed in literacy. Additionally, 64% of UK teachers believe EdTech will contribute to better pupil attainment in the coming years.

The Challenges of EdTech: Ensuring Effective Design and Implementation

While the potential of EdTech is evident, not all solutions on the market live up to this promise. Effective EdTech must be designed to complement teachers' needs, ensure equitable access, and address concerns surrounding screen time.

1. Aligning EdTech with Teachers’ Needs
EdTech should not attempt to replace teachers but rather support them in delivering high-quality education. However, 56% of teachers report that existing EdTech solutions are not designed with their needs in mind. This often manifests in two key issues:

• Insufficient training on EdTech tools, leading to underuse or ineffective implementation.

• Technology that does not prioritise teachers' core needs, such as reducing workload or providing targeted learning resources. To address these challenges, EdTech must be developed in collaboration with educators to create user-friendly solutions that integrate seamlessly into the classroom.

2. Addressing Inequalities in Access to EdTech
One of the most pressing concerns is ensuring equal access to EdTech across different schools and student demographics.

• Cost of EdTech software: High prices can prevent schools and families from adopting these tools. EdTech companies should explore cost-effective development processes to keep prices affordable.

• Availability of devices: Not all students have access to the necessary hardware, such as laptops or tablets. Making EdTech solutions compatible with older devices and multiple platforms can help bridge this gap. A recent DfE survey highlighted that 62% of headteachers see pupil access to devices as the top priority for technology investment over the next three years.

3. The Great Screen Time Debate
Concerns over screen time often arise in discussions about EdTech. Excessive use of digital devices has been linked to issues such as obesity, poor sleep, eye strain, and mental health challenges. However, it is important to distinguish between passive screen time (e.g., social media scrolling) and active screen time (e.g., interactive learning and problem-solving activities).

At Auris Tech, we believe that when designed thoughtfully and used in moderation, EdTech can have a net positive impact on child development. Key considerations include:

• Presenting educational content in a digital format that makes learning engaging rather than feeling like an additional chore.

• Encouraging children to engage with educational content instead of passive media consumption.

• Providing age-appropriate, structured learning experiences that promote creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

Looking forward

EdTech has the power to revolutionise education, supporting both teachers and students in ways that traditional methods cannot. It enhances learning beyond the classroom, increases engagement through gamification, and can be leveraged for targeted interventions to address educational inequalities. However, realising the full potential of EdTech requires careful design that aligns with teachers’ needs, ensures fair access, and mitigates concerns around screen time.

If we fail to implement EdTech effectively, we risk missing out on a valuable opportunity to improve educational outcomes and close attainment gaps. The future of EdTech must be shaped by collaboration between educators, policymakers, and developers to create solutions that truly enhance learning experiences for all children.

At Auris Tech, we are committed to ensuring EdTech is designed with purpose, accessibility, and impact in mind—because when used correctly, technology can be a powerful force for good in education.