Importance of Trust

Trust is pivotal in the EdTech ecosystem, bridging the gap between the industry and decision-makers in educational institutions. The integration of EdTech tools depends heavily on their perceived efficacy, security, and alignment with educational goals.

However, the sector faces a critical challenge - leading EdTech publication, EdSurge, illustrated the scope of the problem by explaining "there is a stunning lack of research and evidence to support the efficacy of those products."

To counter this, various quality assurance certification initiatives for EdTech products and services have been launched. These include EduCheck Digital, Safer Technology for Schools, OEAD Lern-Apps-Gütesiegel, and multiple, privately funded initiatives. However, these initiatives currently lack a structured approach to collaboration, information sharing, interoperability and effective engagement with stakeholders.

The absence of alignment among these initiatives poses a significant obstacle. Without a unified approach, discussing interoperability, or establishing trust, these certifications can become an overwhelming burden both for EdTech providers, especially those active in multiple markets, and end-users like educators, who must decipher and compare their offerings.

There is a lack of structured dialogue enabling knowledge sharing or meaningful engagement with stakeholders to ensure that measures successfully address concerns, increase trust, and support evidence-based decision-making practices. It will be imperative to facilitate common frameworks of understanding to support the effective utilization of EdTech in educational settings.