The international EdTech industry is replete with mission statements promising to make the world a better place through education. Yet, the reality often starkly contrasts with these lofty ideals. The industry predominantly serves the wealthiest 1% of schools, driven by profit motives that neglect the vast majority of students, particularly those in the Global South. At Urban Green Education (UGE), we believe it is time for a paradigm shift. By investing in local teachers and providing them with the necessary tools, we can create a more equitable and effective global education system. This article explores how UGE, in partnership with Lincoln Learning Solutions and Agilix Labs, is leading this change and how the EdTech industry can realign its actions with its mission to serve all students.
The Current State of the EdTech Industry
High Costs and Limited Access
Major EdTech companies like Pearson, the International Baccalaureate (IB), and Cambridge Assessment International Education, are filled with incredible people, incredible vision and mission, and amazing products, but charge premium prices for their products and services. These costs are prohibitive for many schools in the Global South, leading to a concentration of resources in affluent institutions. This model perpetuates educational inequity and leaves the majority of students without access to quality education.
Profit Over Purpose
The primary focus on high-profit markets exacerbates this disparity. Investments are directed towards regions that promise high returns, while underfunded schools are neglected. Even when efforts are made to offer more affordable solutions, the quality often diminishes, resulting in a two-tiered education system where only the wealthiest benefit from top-tier resources.
The Problem of Non-Value-Added Positions
Overpaid and Underutilized
One significant issue within these major EdTech companies is the presence of overpaid positions that add little to no value. Many employees, particularly those stationed in previously colonized countries, draw huge salaries while contributing minimally to the actual educational process. These positions often serve as a means of maintaining control and influence rather than genuinely enhancing educational outcomes.
Colonial Legacy
This practice is a modern extension of colonial legacies, where Western entities exert control over educational systems in developing regions. These highly paid expatriate positions often come at the expense of investing in local talent. Instead of empowering local educators who understand the cultural and educational needs of their communities, these companies perpetuate a cycle of dependency and inefficiency.
The White Savior Complex
As noted by Savala Nolan, executive director of the Thelton E. Henderson Center for Social Justice at UC Berkeley School of Law, the White Savior Complex involves individuals from wealthier countries believing they are better positioned to solve problems in less affluent regions. This mindset not only undermines local expertise but also reinforces the notion that solutions must come from outside rather than within the community. This approach is evident in the hiring practices of many EdTech companies, where expatriate roles are prioritized over local educators.
Urban Green Education: A Mission-Driven Example
Commitment to Mission
Urban Green Education exemplifies a mission-driven approach in the EdTech industry. Our mission is to provide high-quality, customizable educational content that empowers educators and engages students. By partnering with Lincoln Learning Solutions and Agilix Labs, we offer the International Pack, an affordable and comprehensive solution priced at just $30 per student per year. This pack includes a premium LMS from Agilix Labs and access to nearly 110,000 vetted educational resources from Lincoln Learning Solutions.
Supporting Local Teachers
Local teachers in the Global South are college-educated, driven, and possess a deep commitment to their students. Yet, they often lack the resources and support necessary to succeed. Instead of investing in expensive expatriate teachers, funds should be redirected towards equipping local teachers with the tools they need and offering them higher salaries. This approach not only respects and leverages their expertise but also fosters sustainable educational development within communities.
True Partnership
Urban Green Education positions itself as a partner to schools rather than just a vendor. This partnership involves collaboration with educators to tailor solutions to their specific needs. By listening to and supporting local teachers, we can create a more effective and responsive educational environment.
Breaking Down Colonial Mindsets
Challenging the White Savior Complex
The White Savior Complex, where individuals from wealthier countries believe they are better positioned to solve the problems of less affluent regions, perpetuates a colonial mindset. As Savala Nolan points out, such individuals think "they are somehow in the position that should enable them to have more power in solving the problem than the people who are impacted." This mindset undermines local expertise and fails to address the root causes of educational inequity.
Empowering Local Solutions
True change comes from within the community. By empowering local teachers and respecting their knowledge and experience, we can develop solutions that are culturally relevant and sustainable. Investing in local educators fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, leading to more meaningful and lasting educational improvements.
Imagining a Better Future
What If We Cared About the 99%?
What if we redirected our focus and resources to serve the 99% of schools currently excluded from modern educational opportunities? Imagine the impact of providing high-quality educational tools to every student, regardless of their economic background. By believing in and supporting local teachers, we can unlock the full potential of students in the Global South and drive global innovation and progress.
A Call to Action
It is time for the EdTech industry to reflect on its mission and realign its actions to better serve educators and students worldwide. Urban Green Education, in partnership with Lincoln Learning Solutions and Agilix Labs, is committed to this mission. We invite our peers in the EdTech industry to join us in this effort. Together, we can create lasting and impactful change. We can be better. We can do something meaningful today.
For more information on how Urban Green Education is making a difference, visit Urban Green Education and explore our partnerships with Lincoln Learning Solutions and Agilix Labs. Let's start a conversation about how we can transform education for all.