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Revolutionizing Edtech: Teacher Buy-In as a Game Changer

In a compelling new report titled Classroom of the Future 2025, Clever, a major player in digital learning platforms, has shed light on the critical role that teacher buy-in plays in determining the success of educational technology (edtech). Conducted in partnership with Whiteboard Advisors, the survey incorporates insights from over 2,500 educators across more than 110,000 schools, revealing that technology access is not the main prerequisite for improved student engagement and performance. Rather, it is the confidence and acceptance of the teaching staff that makes all the difference.

Clever's CEO Trish Sparks emphasizes, “Even the most advanced tools fall flat without teacher buy-in.” The implications of this statement underline a central theme: while the edtech landscape is rapidly evolving, the human element remains paramount. The 2025 report conveys that when teachers feel supported, they are more likely to leverage technology effectively, which in turn fosters an environment where student engagement and success can thrive.

Key Discoveries from the Classroom of the Future Report

1. Teacher Buy-In as an Edtech Bottleneck
The findings illuminate that educators who actively embrace edtech see student engagement levels soar, with reports indicating as high as 70%. However, a worrying trend shows that 72% of hesitant teachers feel disenchanted with the current educational trajectory, defining a broader crisis that needs urgent attention.

2. Cautious Yet Hopeful AI Adoption
The survey reveals that only 27% of teachers feel confident using AI tools, a significant yet modest adoption rate. Despite this hesitance, there is a budding enthusiasm for AI-powered study aids—68% of educators advocate for their use in areas like tutoring and language acquisition.

3. Importance of Alignment for Student Engagement
Engaging students remains a challenge, as 60% of teachers identify gamification as a powerful means of engagement, yet 53% report that current edtech offerings fail to address their students' varied academic and emotional requirements.

4. Procurement Challenges
Alarmingly, only 20% of school administration personnel regard teacher adoption as a criterion for selecting new edtech. This oversight can lead to the implementation of tools that may not suit the unique needs of their classrooms.

5. Cybersecurity Concerns
A staggering one in four educators receive no training in cybersecurity, which places schools at a heightened risk even as they handle sensitive student information daily.

Reflecting on these insights, Mark Racine, former Chief Information Officer for Boston Public Schools, states, “Usage data tells you what's being used, but only teachers can tell you why.” His assertion calls for greater integration of teacher input in the procurement decision-making processes to foster more effective and user-centered edtech environments.

Emerging AI Potential

Despite the existing barriers to confidence and understanding in adopting AI technology, educators are beginning to grasp its potential to cater to diverse student needs. They recognize that AI can offer solutions for tutoring, assist chronically absent students, and personalize learning experiences. However, the prerequisites for integrating these technologies meaningfully include ongoing training for educators and the establishment of trust with these new systems.

The findings from Clever’s 2025 Classroom of the Future Report send a clear message: effective edtech isn't merely about digital access, features, or budgets—it fundamentally hinges on enabling and empowering teachers. As educational leaders deliberate the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies from artificial intelligence to enhanced cybersecurity measures, prioritizing educators’ opinions and buy-in emerges as a critical strategy for success. By acknowledging the indispensable role of teachers, educational technologists can help ensure that digital tools genuinely fulfill their promise of unlocking student potential.

About Clever

Clever is dedicated to connecting every student to a world of learning opportunities, supporting over 77% of U.S. K-12 schools. It offers a secure digital learning experience through its platform, which safeguards access for students, teachers, and school staff. With a focus on technology that truly works for students, Clever is committed to advancing educational standards and safeguarding identities in schools. Clever operates under the umbrella of Kahoot! and maintains its headquarters in San Francisco, California. For further information, visit clever.com.