Why evidence-backed EdTech matters:

The Case for Certifications in EdTech

In an era where classrooms are increasingly powered by digital tools, the promise of EdTech to transform learning has never been greater. From adaptive learning platforms to AI-driven tutoring systems, EdTech products claim to enhance student outcomes, engage learners, and support teachers. Yet, as the market floods with new tools, a critical question arises: how can educators and school districts be sure these products actually work?

The answer lies in rigorous research, evidence-backed design, and third-party certifications. Without these, schools risk investing in tools that may look flashy but fail to deliver meaningful learning outcomes. As the industry grows—projected to reach $404 billion globally by 2025—the need for quality standards has never been more urgent.

The problem with unverified EdTech

The allure of EdTech is undeniable. Teachers and administrators are often drawn to products that promise to save time, personalize learning, or boost test scores. However, many of these tools lack evidence to support their claims. A 2022 report by Digital Promise highlighted that only a fraction of edTech products undergo rigorous evaluation to prove their effectiveness. This leaves educators in a difficult position: how can they distinguish between genuinely impactful tools and those that are merely well-marketed?

“Teachers and school leaders are under immense pressure to improve student outcomes, but they don’t always have the time or expertise to evaluate the effectiveness of edTech products,” says Dr. Karen Cator, former CEO of Digital Promise. “This is why third-party certifications and research-backed validation are so critical.”

Without such validation, the consequences can be dire. Schools may waste limited budgets on ineffective tools, teachers may spend valuable time integrating products that don’t deliver results, and, most importantly, students may miss out on opportunities to learn and grow.

The role of Certifications in building trust

Organizations like Digital Promise, UNICEF and the International Certification of Evidence of Impact in EdTech (ICEIE) are stepping in to address this gap. These bodies evaluate EdTech products against rigorous standards, ensuring they are grounded in research and proven to improve learning outcomes. The ICEIE provides a global benchmark for EdTech quality, certifying products that have undergone independent evaluation and shown measurable impact. “Certification is about trust,” says prof. Natalia Kucirkova, CEO and researcher at the International Centre for EdTech Impact. “When a product carries a certification like ICEIE’s, it tells educators that this tool has been tested and validated by external experts. It’s a seal of approval that can guide decision-making.”

Why evidence matters for teachers and students

For teachers, evidence-backed EdTech can be a game-changer. Tools that are proven to work can save time, reduce frustration, and provide actionable insights into student progress. “When I use a certified product, I know it’s been designed with real classrooms in mind,” says a middle school teacher. “It’s not just a shiny new app—it’s something that actually helps my students learn.”

For students, the stakes are even higher. Research shows that poorly designed EdTech can exacerbate inequities, leaving behind those who need support the most. Conversely, tools that are grounded in evidence can level the playing field, providing personalized learning experiences that meet students where they are.

What about school districts?

As the EdTech market continues to expand, school districts must prioritize evidence and certification when selecting products. This means asking tough questions: Has this tool been independently evaluated? Does it have a certification from a reputable organization? What evidence supports its claims?

Digital Promise’s report underscores the importance of collaboration between edTech developers and researchers to ensure products are both innovative and effective.

“The best edTech is built on a foundation of research. It’s not enough to have a great idea—you need to prove it works.”

For school districts, investing in certified edTech is not just a matter of due diligence; it’s a moral imperative. Every dollar spent on unproven tools is a dollar that could have been used to support student learning. Every hour spent integrating ineffective products is an hour that could have been spent teaching.

The Path Forward

The EdTech industry has the potential to revolutionize education, but only if it is held to the highest standards. By prioritizing research-backed design, validated through external certifications, educators can ensure they are choosing tools that truly make a difference.

“We owe it to our teachers and students to demand better. Certification isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have.”

For school districts and teachers, the message is clear: never again settle for edTech that isn’t validated. The future of education depends on it.

Inspired by insights from Digital Promise and the Norwegian Centre for Learning Environment.