Office of Educational Technology (EdTech)

Educational Technology (also known as edtech) is the combination of information technology (hardware, software, data, and infrastructure) with sound teaching and learning practices. The goal of edtech is to purposefully and strategically use available resources to enhance the individual and collective educational experience, facilitate instruction and learning, and ultimately, support students and educators in lifelong learning.

The DESE EdTech team envisions a world where all K–12 students in Massachusetts regularly engage in opportunities to learn, explore, and innovate through relevant, contemporary technology and with well-prepared and inspired educators. With strategic and thoughtful planning and implementation, edtech has the potential to support the Department's educational vision and:

• ensure all students are known and valued,
• create learning experiences that are relevant, real-world, and interactive, and
• provide individualized supports that enable students to excel at grade level and beyond.

Our EdTech Goals:

The Office of Educational Technology provides guidance, resources, and support in three primary areas, which you can find more information about on the linked pages.

• Goal 1: Expand equitable access to technology, including sufficient bandwidth, 1:1 devices, and high-quality digital materials and experiences.
• Goal 2: Identify, evaluate, and promote effective uses of edtech that serve to enhance student learning.
• Goal 3: Leverage research and innovation in K–12 edtech that may provide solutions to persistent problems and support next generation learning.

Sustaining Progress in Access and Equity: EdTech Strategic Planning Guide

The Department, in partnership with local, state, and national stakeholders, developed the Sustaining Progress in Access and Equity: Edtech Strategic Planning Guide for district and school leaders in Massachusetts. Originally published in April 2021, the guide addressed the significant investments in edtech hardware, software, and infrastructure due to an influx of funding. To sustain the momentum and expansion of edtech use, the guide offered strategic planning support for educational technology investments.

With new developments since its initial release, we are excited to present this updated version, featuring fresh content, recommendations, and resources to keep it valuable for school and district leaders. DESE publishes this guide to affirm our collective commitment to the strategic, equitable, and effective integration of edtech in K–12 schools. It provides an overview of K–12 edtech and offers insights to support district administrative teams in achieving their educational vision.

While focused on edtech, the guide is designed to be flexible and adaptable to each district's unique mission, vision, and learning priorities. It should complement overall strategic plans, instructional visions, and budget planning efforts. DESE encourages district administrative teams to collectively assess and utilize the guidance to shape the future of edtech in their organizations.

Last Updated: October 2, 2024