Page 140 - ALEF EDUCATION PR REPORT - FEBRUARY 2026

2/16/26, 11:36 AM Beyond Screen Time: Measuring What Really Matters In EdTech

In response, a new generation of evaluation models is emerging—ones that prioritize efficacy,

effectiveness, equity, ethics and environment. These frameworks offer a more holistic view of
EdTech’s true value. Effective measurement should also encompass teacher enablement, student
engagement quality and long-term knowledge retention, rather than short-term activity alone.

Emerging assessments like the Multidimensional EdTech Impact Index are particularly valuable
in this context. They enable educators to track systemic improvements across multiple

dimensions; support policymakers and funders in monitoring outcomes; and allow researchers to
compare tools over time to inform evidence-based decision making and capacity building.

Bridging Learning Gaps Through Holistic Assessments

Globally, both educators and institutions are shifting toward evidence-based evaluation of EdTech

platforms and reducing reliance on usage statistics alone. The primary focus should be on
achieving measurable improvements in student performance by integrating EdTech tools into
curriculum, instruction and assessment.

For instance, the Ivy Tech Community College in Indiana used an AI-based algorithm to analyze
10,000 course sections, identifying 16,000 students at risk of failing. They then intervened with

targeted support, including access to missing course materials. This helped at least 3,000 of these
students improve to a C grade or better, recording the university’s largest drop in D and F grades
in over 50 years.

Such outcomes reinforce a critical insight: technology delivers impact when it is embedded within

strong instructional design. Education systems that combine digital learning with formative
assessment, clear learning objectives and teacher-led feedback consistently achieve stronger

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