Over the past decade, edtech has undergone significant innovations. Emerging products aimed at streamlining tasks have shifted teachers’ perspective of such tools in a positive way, and they’re making a profound impact on the profession.
An overwhelming 97% of teachers say they’re confident in their ability to use technology effectively, according to a new survey from HMH, an adaptive learning company. Of those who have been teachers for at least 10 years, 81% say tech has positively impacted the profession.
However, two-thirds of them would love to be able to connect instruction within supplemental practice, intervention and assessment on one platform.
AI’s role in edtech
Teachers were asked about their thoughts on arguably the most pressing topic surrounding edtech: artificial intelligence. Among the 50% of respondents who reported using generative AI:
- 76% say it’s at least “somewhat valuable” to their work
- 73% say it saves time
- 72% plan to use it even more in the next school year
Educators agree that tools utilizing generative AI:
- Are an inevitable technological advancement (77%)
- Should be harnessed positively and ethically (84%)
- Need to fulfill teacher professional development needs (76%)
Yet, teachers still have some hesitancy about generative AI. Nearly 60% have concerns about plagiarism, and 35% say there’s a lack of PD or guidance on how to implement the technology safely.
“As one of the biggest influences on students’ lives, we must ensure teachers have the tools, technology, and professional learning support they need to help every student get a quality education,” said Francie Alexander, senior vice president of research at HMH.
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The survey also captured teachers’ sentiments toward the profession as a whole. Here’s a brief look at that data:
- Sentiment toward the profession is lower today than when the survey began in 2015, measured at 36% in 2024 compared to 41%.
- 64% feel negative about the state of teaching and learning, citing issues like compensation, mental health and funding.
- Educators are less likely to leave the field than 10 years ago, but 41% have yet to rule it out. Twenty-six percent say they’ll leave within the next five years.
