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.

31:38

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Sara Schapiro

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Quick takeaways

The education sector suffers from starkly insufficient R&D funding, receiving only 0.4% of the Department of Education's budget compared to other industries.

Collaboration among educators, policymakers, and parents is essential to advocate for stronger R&D infrastructure that supports evidence-based practices and educational innovation.

Deep dives

The Need for Increased R&D in Education

The education sector currently lacks sufficient research and development (R&D) funding compared to other crucial fields like healthcare and technology. This deficit of financial support has limited the development of evidence-based strategies to enhance educational practices and student success. For instance, education R&D comprises only 0.4% of the Department of Education's budget, which starkly contrasts with substantial R&D investments in industries such as agriculture and infrastructure. Insufficient investment in education R&D has hindered progress, leaving educators without access to the best tools and methods for effective teaching.

Intro

2min

Funding the Future: R&D in Education

5min

Navigating Educational Data Challenges

4min

Navigating Challenges in Education Research and Student Success

3min

The Rise of Venture Capital in EdTech

5min

Transforming Education Through Research and Innovation

14min

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Sara Schapiro, the director of the Alliance for Learning Innovation. Together, they explore the critical need for enhanced research and development (R&D) within the education sector—an area historically underfunded compared to other industries like healthcare. The discussion delves into the unique challenges and opportunities of education R&D, highlighting the importance of both federal and state-level support in developing interoperable data systems that drive innovation. Sara emphasizes the essential role of venture capital and design research in shaping the future of EdTech, while also stressing the importance of evidence-based practices in schools. This episode serves as a call to action for educators, policymakers, and parents to collaboratively advocate for stronger R&D infrastructure, ensuring that every student benefits from cutting-edge educational strategies. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of education innovation and the pathways to achieving it.

Outline