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Toward a holistic approach to EdTech effectiveness: Lessons from Covid-19 research in Bangladesh, Ghana, Kenya, Pakistan, and Sierra Leone

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Listed:
  • Nicolai, Susan
  • Jordan, Katy
  • Adam, Taskeen
  • Kaye, Tom
  • Myers, Christina

Abstract

During school closures prompted by the Covid-19 pandemic, educational technology (EdTech) was often used to continue educational provision. In this article, we consider EdTech effectiveness using a holistic framework, and synthesise findings from 10 primary research studies of EdTech interventions conducted in low- and middle-income countries during the pandemic. The framework includes five main lenses: learning outcomes, enhancing equity, implementation context, cost and affordability, and alignment and scale. While in-person schooling has largely resumed, there continues to be further integration of EdTech into education systems globally. This analysis provides evidence-based insights and highlights knowledge gaps to shape holistic analysis of both EdTech mainstreaming and future research into the effective use of EdTech to strengthen learning.

Suggested Citation

  • Nicolai, Susan & Jordan, Katy & Adam, Taskeen & Kaye, Tom & Myers, Christina, 2023. "Toward a holistic approach to EdTech effectiveness: Lessons from Covid-19 research in Bangladesh, Ghana, Kenya, Pakistan, and Sierra Leone," International Journal of Educational Development, Elsevier, vol. 102(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:injoed:v:102:y:2023:i:c:s0738059323001177
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ijedudev.2023.102841
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