FreshEd #367 – Digital Infrastructures of Education (Ben Williamson)
Sep 8, 2024
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In this discussion, Ben Williamson, a Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Research in Digital Education at the University of Edinburgh, addresses the digital transformation in education. He explores the challenges brought on by the pandemic, highlighting the shift towards cloud computing and the rising influence of major tech firms. Williamson discusses the rentier model of EdTech, raising concerns about financial dependencies and the implications for educational autonomy. He also critically assesses the role of generative AI in learning, stressing the need for caution and deeper consideration of its impacts.
The COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a rapid digital transformation in education, reshaping infrastructures and increasing reliance on large tech companies.
The rise of AI in educational settings raises ethical concerns and challenges traditional pedagogical practices, potentially undermining educational quality.
Deep dives
The Impact of COVID-19 on Education Technology
The integration of technology in education has accelerated significantly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced educational institutions to shift to digital platforms. This rapid transition has led to a reconfiguration of digital infrastructures, with many schools and universities outsourcing their IT services to major tech companies such as Microsoft and Google. The reliance on cloud-based systems means that educational practices are fundamentally changing, as these companies enable new functionalities like artificial intelligence that enhance teaching and administrative processes. Additionally, the pandemic highlighted the interconnectedness of education and technology, prompting discussions on how these changes will shape future learning experiences.
Shift Towards Data-Driven Educational Practices
As digital infrastructures evolve, educational institutions are becoming increasingly dependent on data systems that shape teaching practices. The integration of big tech into education raises questions about how teachers are being prepared to adapt to these changes, with external organizations providing professional development that emphasizes new technologies. This reliance on data collection and AI-driven solutions also poses potential risks to educators' autonomy, as the systems in place may dictate the structure and content of their teaching. Such a shift underscores the need for ongoing research into the implications of these data-driven approaches on educational outcomes.
The Economic Landscape of EdTech
The emergence of a profitable edtech industry during the pandemic led to what some describe as an 'edtech bubble,' with many companies experiencing vast increases in value. However, the subsequent decline in many of these companies raises questions about the sustainability of the business models that underpin educational technology. While some argue that these companies are motivated by profit, the reality is that they are engaged in complex market practices that impact educational institutions and constrain their options. The interplay between profit-oriented motives and the need for educational effectiveness creates an environment that demands careful scrutiny and strategic responses from stakeholders.
Concerns over AI and the Future of Education
The increasing deployment of artificial intelligence in educational settings raises questions about the ethical implications and the potential erosion of pedagogical practices. Teachers face challenges as automated systems may alter how they deliver instruction, leading to a one-size-fits-all approach that can diminish the quality of education. Moreover, issues regarding the use of AI in academic publishing highlight the underlying power dynamics between educational institutions and tech companies, as proprietary agreements could limit transparency and access to knowledge. Advocating for a more cautious approach to AI integration is essential to ensure that the educational values remain at the forefront amid technological advancements.
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Today we explore the digital transformation of and in education. My guest is Ben Williamson who argues that we are witnessing a new digital infrastructure being built beneath our feet.
The last time Ben joined FreshEd was in February 2020, just one month before the UK went into its first Covid-19 lockdown. When it comes to education and technology, a lot has changed in the past 4.5 years. Ben talks through some of those changes. Ben Williamson is a Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Research in Digital Education at the University of Edinburgh.
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