Are you a district leader faced with the daunting task of choosing the best educational technology tools for your schools? The decision can have a significant impact on classrooms and student learning. So, how do you make the right choice?
In 2022, the Decision Lab (TDL), a research and innovation firm, conducted a study involving over 225 edtech decision-makers in K-12 school districts in the US. The research uncovered the complexities involved in edtech procurement decisions and outlined four key stages in the procurement journey.
1. Needfind: Identify Edtech Needs
At the “needfind” stage, districts pinpoint specific needs for edtech products by evaluating existing tools and conducting market research. However, challenges like evaluating existing tools, limited awareness of available products, and the need to reduce product overload can impede the process.
To overcome these challenges, districts can analyze engagement data, gather feedback from teachers and students, and attend conferences to connect with edtech providers.
2. Evaluate: Assess Product Quality and Efficacy
During the evaluation stage, districts review potential products, ensuring alignment with standards and curriculum. Barriers like choice overload, ambiguous evaluation criteria, and confirmation bias can hinder decision-making.
To address these challenges, decision-makers can leverage evaluation frameworks, consult trusted third-party sources like the Edtech Index, and involve multiple stakeholders in the evaluation process.
3. Pilot: Test Products and Gather Feedback
In the pilot stage, districts dive deeper into product testing through demonstrations and pilot programs. Challenges like insufficient testing time and the zero-risk bias can impact decision-making.
To combat these challenges, districts can adopt structured feedback collection methods and ensure consistent product demonstrations for fair comparisons.
4. Purchase: Establish Standardized Procurement Processes
During the purchase stage, rigorous vetting of products is crucial before widespread implementation. Challenges may arise from inadequate evaluation processes and non-essential factors influencing decisions.
To enhance decision-making, districts should implement standardized procurement processes, use detailed assessment rubrics, and collaborate with edtech providers for tailored professional development programs.
By following a systematic, evidence-based approach and leveraging the strategies outlined in this article, district leaders can navigate the edtech procurement process effectively and choose high-quality products that positively impact teaching and learning.
