EdTech Connect

From Google to Doowii: Making EdTech Data Actually Useful with Jeff Rubenstein

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In this episode of EdTech Connect, host Jeff Dillon sits down with Jeff Rubenstein, Chief Product Officer at doowii and a seasoned leader in educational technology with experience at Google, 2U, and Kaltura.

They dive into the transformative power of AI-driven data analytics in education, exploring how doowii’s platform turns fragmented student data into actionable insights—without requiring a team of data scientists.

Jeff Rubenstein shares his journey from early LMS development to tackling one of higher ed’s biggest challenges: democratizing data access across institutions. They discuss:

  • Why most schools struggle with "data culture" when only a handful of people can access insights.
  • How AI-powered virtual data analysts can empower admissions, student success teams, and faculty.
  • Real-world examples, from predicting dropout risks to integrating labor market data for career pathways.
  • The future of edtech infrastructure as institutions shift toward skills-based learning and employment alignment.

    • Whether you’re a CIO, IR leader, or educator, this episode offers a roadmap for breaking down data silos and putting AI to work—without the buzzwords.

    Key Takeaways
    1. The Data Democracy Problem: Most schools call themselves "data-driven," but only 4–5 people can actually access or interpret the data.
    2. AI as a Force Multiplier: doowii’s platform acts as a virtual data scientist, letting non-technical users explore trends (e.g., engagement by ZIP code, first-gen student performance) without IT tickets.
    3. Beyond Dashboards: Traditional tools like Tableau are powerful but static. AI enables dynamic, conversational analytics (e.g., "Show me chronically absent students" → AI defines "chronic absence" contextually).
    4. Predictive Analytics Made Practical: Schools are using doowii to identify at-risk students and link external data (e.g., neighborhood power outages) to retention strategies.
    5. Integration Flexibility: doowii works standalone and embedded in systems like Canvas LMS and Salesforce, adapting to schools’ existing tech stacks.
    6. The Future of EdTech: Rubenstein predicts a shift from generic LMS/SIS architectures to skills-based systems tied to employment outcomes.
      7. Conversation Rundowns
      1. Introduction & Jeff’s Journey (0:00)
      2. The Student Data Problem (03:53)
      3. Predictive Analytics in Action (10:24)
      4. Integration: Standalone vs. Embedded (15:51)
      5. The Future of EdTech Infrastructure (20:10)
      6. Who is doowii for? (25:41)
      7. What Current EdTech Trend Will Be Remembered? (27:19)
        8. Dig Deeper

        LinkedIn

        https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrubenstein/

        doowii

        https://www.doowii.io/ 

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        For more insights on innovative teaching strategies, the role of technology in education, and the future of learning, visit EdTech Connect. Subscribe to stay updated on the latest trends and conversations in educational technology or visit https://edtechconnect.com.

         

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        EdTech ConnectBy Jeff Dillon