The Role of Educators in the EdTech Entrepreneurship Ecosystem

• In Event: 53.082 - Poster Session 10
  In Poster Session: 53.082-4 - Technology as an Agent of Change in Teaching and Learning SIG Poster Session

Abstract

This qualitative case study research evaluated what educators and startups learned when participating in a 4-hour edtech design summit that strategically facilitated conversation and activities across typically siloed constituents in the edtech ecosystem: educators, researchers, developers, investors, students. Findings revealed educators learned about edtech innovations through diverse viewpoints and developed appreciative stances on edtech startups. Startups cited educator feedback as crucial to product pivots, garnering investment, and validation for continued growth. This research encourages preservice teacher education programs to create opportunities for novice teachers to participate in the edtech innovation ecosystem.

Authors

• Joan E. Hughes, The University of Texas - Austin

• Sean Duffy, EdTech Austin