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Education Technology Insights Weekly Brief
Be first to read the latest tech news, Industry Leader's Insights, and CIO interviews of medium and large enterprises exclusively from Education Technology Insights
In a vibrant classroom buzzing with curiosity, students are no longer confined to sitting passively at their desks. Instead, they’re diving headfirst into an interactive journey where every click on their screens unlocks new layers of coding discovery. Thanks to CodeMonkey, the world of coding transcends dry, abstract concepts, transforming into an exhilarating adventure full of challenges, creativity, and triumph. Every line of code becomes a step toward solving puzzles, creating games, or unlocking new achievements. Students grow more confident with every success, making learning both educational and deeply engaging. “We are transforming coding into an engaging, hands-on experience where kids master problem-solving and unleash their creativity—all while having fun,” says Boaz Zaionce, COO and VP of marketing.
K-12 Professional Development Solutions of the Year 2025
From addressing achievement gaps to meeting shifting standards and societal expectations, the role of educators today is more demanding than ever. While these challenges can seem daunting, they also present opportunities for innovation in shaping the future of education. This is where Solution Tree has emerged as a trusted partner, offering professional development and resources grounded in real-world educational experience. One thing that sets Solution Tree apart is its focus on meeting the needs of its customers by leveraging the expertise of educators who have lived the journey themselves. Since its founding over 25 years ago, the company has evolved from an educational publishing business into a comprehensive solution provider. Its offerings span books, professional development, educational events, EdTech Products (Avanti and Global PD Teams)—all designed with one goal: to ensure learning for all. While Global PD Teams is a dynamic online platform designed to help schools and districts successfully implement and sustain transformative initiatives like the Professional Learning Communities at Work® (PLC at Work®) process, Avanti is an innovative, teacher-driven professional learning platform that delivers personalized, on demand development tailored to real classroom challenges. Designed by educators for educators, Avanti offers curated video content, practical implementation resources, and interactive tools that enhance instructional practices, boost student engagement, and drive better learning outcomes. With a teacher first approach, Avanti ensures that every learning experience is relevant, practical, and aligned with the ultimate goal—student success. Equipped with built-in resources, collaborative tools, mini courses, and progress-tracking capabilities, Global PD Teams fosters seamless teamwork among educators. By prioritizing student learning, collaboration, and measurable outcomes, the platform provides on-demand access to expert guidance, research-based strategies, and actionable resources— empowering teams at every level to build and sustain high quality professional development. However, Solution Tree’s true strength lies in the people behind its work—practitioners who have walked the halls of schools and faced the challenges of the classroom.
Library App of the Year 2025
The quiet rustle of pages, the distant hum of whispers—libraries have long been treasured sanctuaries of learning. Today, they are evolving into dynamic hubs where technology meets tradition. The seamless integration of the digital and physical worlds reshapes how communities access knowledge and connect with resources. Solus is at the forefront of this transformation, a company redefining what libraries can achieve in a digital-first world. Solus has carved a niche as a global leader in library technology, offering innovative software solutions that elevate user and staff experiences. Initially focused on public libraries, the company has expanded to academic institutions, underscoring its versatility and broad impact. With a global presence spanning over 8,000 libraries and supporting 50 languages—including left-to-right and right-toleft scripts—Solus helps libraries remain vibrant, accessible, and relevant. “Our goal is to deliver exceptional user experiences across all digital library touchpoints,” says Neil Wishart, co-founder and CEO of Solus. “From Library Apps and Discovery platforms to e-Booking of Events, Rooms, Resources and PCs, we integrate diverse systems to create seamless interactions leaving libraries to focus on their communities.” The Solus Ecosystem: A Unified Approach A standout feature of Solus is its ecosystem—a suite of interconnected products powered by robust cloud-based middleware. This middleware is the foundation, enabling seamless integration of various library systems and ensuring a consistent experience across all user interactions. The key components of the ecosystem include: • Solus Library App: The flagship product allows users to manage their library experience via mobile devices. From checking out books using NFC technology to booking study rooms and accessing e-content, the app is a one-stop solution for library members. Its unique features include self-checkout through RFID, personalized reading lists, push notifications for renuals and returning checkouts, and real-time alerts.
CXO INSIGHTS
Digital Card Games: A Forgotten Tool for Learning
Karl Kapp, Professor of Instructional Technology; Director of the Institute for Interactive Technologies, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
Accessibility and Affordability in Higher Education
Becky L. Vasquez, Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Leadership Practices of Successful Digital Learning Leaders
Donna Petherbridge, Vice Provost, Digital Education & Learning Technology Applications, North Carolina State University
IN FOCUS
Gamifying Education: Trends and Opportunities in Learning Platforms
Gaming and education combine to transform the learning experience across various sectors. Game-based learning platforms revolutionize traditional educational methods by providing interactive, engaging environments that captivate learners.
From Book Borrowing to Cloud Libraries: The Evolution of Library Apps
The Library App market has expanded significantly, driven by rising demand for digital information and the convenience of mobile access.
EDITORIAL
Shaping the Future of Education
Education technology is reshaping the way knowledge is delivered and acquired. Digital tools, artificial intelligence and interactive platforms are transforming traditional learning environments, making education more accessible and engaging. Reports state that the global education technology market, valued at $250.2 billion in 2024, is estimated to grow to $721.2 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 11.86 percent. A wave of cutting-edge innovations is driving this rapid growth. Artificial intelligence makes learning more personalized than ever, adapting lessons to fit each student’s pace and style. Game-based learning platforms turn education into an interactive adventure, using challenges, rewards and storytelling to boost engagement. Virtual and augmented reality bring life lessons—students can explore ancient civilizations, dissect virtual frogs, or conduct science experiments in a digital lab. Digital library apps are breaking down barriers to knowledge, offering instant access to books and research materials anywhere, anytime. At the same time, professional development solutions empower educators with the tools and training they need to harness these technologies effectively, ensuring classrooms evolve with the digital age. This edition of Education Technology Insights brings recent developments in education technology, highlighting the most impactful innovations shaping modern learning. It features thought leadership articles from industry experts, including Charles Franklin, Assistant Superintendent of Technology Services and Information Services at Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, who discusses the lack of dedicated project management offices in K-12 and the need for structured project governance. Anthony Chow, PhD, Professor and Director of San José State University School of Information, shares valuable insights into the use of extended reality (XR) technologies in education. We hope this edition, featuring the top K-12 Professional Development Solutions of the Year 2025, Game-Based Learning Platform of the Year 2025, and Library App of the Year 2025, helps you build the partnership your organization needs to sharpen its competitive edge in the education technology industry.
