Understanding the Transforming Edtech Paradigm

Guy Littlefair, Pro Vice Chancellor International and Dean of the Faculty of Design and Creative Technologies, Auckland University of Technology

Guy Littlefair, Pro Vice Chancellor International and Dean of the Faculty of Design and Creative Technologies, Auckland University of Technology

In your opinion, how has the EdTech landscape evolved over the years? What are some of the advantages of the current technological evolution?

For decades, if not centuries, the mode of delivery between academics and students has changed very little. With the arrival of the digital age, the pace of change in reliance of technology has grown exponentially. To consider in the current Covid-19 environment the reliance on the traditional is almost incomprehensible. Across the world, universities have successfully, rapidly pivoted to an almost online-only mode of delivery of complex and comprehensive degrees and programs of study. Never before has the place of EdTech been so central to the future of universities and the satisfaction and the success of students.

What according to you are some of the challenges plaguing the EdTech landscape and how can they be effectively mitigated?

For many students, EdTech provides an enhanced and augmented learning experience. However, there is a risk some students may be left behind, for a variety of reasons, including access to devices, internet, or an appropriate environment to study, unless universities appropriately respond. The intent must also be supported by practical and physical considerations to ensure equity in the educational landscape.

“Curation of learning media vs creation of new media must be appropriately considered to avoid the paradox of quantity over the all-important quality”

Curation of learning media vs creation of new media must be appropriately considered to avoid the paradox of quantity over the all-important quality.

Do you have any advice for industry veterans or budding entrepreneurs from the EdTech space?

Data and information at the fingertips of students must lead to universality through seamless platform connectivity. However, learning where you are–age, place, time–and who you're with-peers, mentors, and contemporaries need to be encapsulated in future developments of the EdTech space.

EdTech