Getting Smart Podcast How Important is Research and Development for Education? | Sara Schapiro
Apr 16, 2025
Sara Schapiro, the Director of the Alliance for Learning Innovation, dives into the need for increased research and development in education. She discusses the stark underfunding compared to healthcare and the role of federal and state support in fostering innovation. Schapiro highlights the importance of interoperable data systems and evidence-based practices. With insights on venture capital's impact on EdTech, she urges collaboration among educators, policymakers, and parents to advocate for stronger R&D, ensuring every student thrives in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Underfunded Education R&D
- Education R&D is severely underfunded, representing only 0.4% of the Department of Education's budget.
- This lack of investment hinders progress and innovation in the field, unlike healthcare or other sectors.
R&D Infrastructure Challenges
- The US education system's decentralized structure, with 20,000 local authorities, hinders R&D.
- Private ownership of data models by edtech vendors further complicates data sharing and analysis.
Florida's Data System
- Florida stands out with a strong longitudinal data system, potentially due to Jeb Bush's leadership.
- This system facilitates tracking student progress from school to career, a model for other states.