Here's how I used to define edtech.
Any K-8 learning moments that were 100% online.
Pretty limiting, right?
These traits are still the first ones that pop into my head when I hear or see the word edtech today. I think it's because the time period and modality fit a lot of the key experiences that I remember.
I'll bet someone who was introduced to edtech as an adult who then started working in the industry would have an older outlook of the industry.
The companies we choose to work for may reflect the time we spent as a user. There's some level of relatability that comes with the work we choose.
In the short time since starting my career, I've been exposed to new ideas that help me see beyond my default view of what edtech is. Here they are.
Edtech can embrace printable materials
Edtech doesn't have to be 100% digital.
In fact, many edtech buyers are looking for the right mix of print and digital materials. They serve different purposes and using both offers users a healthy balance.
Edtech doesn't have an expiration date
I started using edtech in elementary school. After 10+ years, I still am.
There isn't a right or wrong time to start using these platforms. Once you identify a learning need that can be addressed, go for it.
This $123 billion industry continues to grow and serve people of all ages.
There are so many reasons to keep learning, even after we've taken our last school test:
professional development
personal fulfillment
to socialize, and more!
Famtech is an emerging industry
I'm obsessed with kids using edtech at home. I know from personal experience that home can be a place for many of them to:
get 1:1 learning
practice freely, without judgment
not have to compete for their teacher's attention
Building at-home edtech products involves tapping into the parent market.
At-home education takes a family effort, especially for younger learners. Think about the processes and frustration that come with logging into a product and troubleshooting issues.
Looking into edtech usage at home, led me to famtech.
There are a lot of home needs that could be solved by tech, from kid learning to financial and health management.
Channel your edtech kid to look beyond your edtech default
Think back on your experience as an edtech user. Consider how old you were when you started logging onto different platforms. And the types of companies you work for.
This is probably your edtech default.
Now recognize a few ways you can look beyond your default. You just might unlock the door to a new passion project or solution to an industry problem you've been looking to solve.
For more chances to see beyond your default edtech view, subscribe to the Channel Your Edtech Kid newsletter and get a monthly blog roundup delivered straight to your inbox!