In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Sara Schapiro, the director of the Alliance for Learning Innovation. Together, they explore the critical need for enhanced research and development (R&D) within the education sector—an area historically underfunded compared to other industries like healthcare. The discussion delves into the unique challenges and opportunities of education R&D, highlighting the importance of both federal and state-level support in developing interoperable data systems that drive innovation. Sara emphasizes the essential role of venture capital and design research in shaping the future of EdTech, while also stressing the importance of evidence-based practices in schools. This episode serves as a call to action for educators, policymakers, and parents to collaboratively advocate for stronger R&D infrastructure, ensuring that every student benefits from cutting-edge educational strategies. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of education innovation and the pathways to achieving it.

Outline

• (00:00) Introduction: The Need for More R&D in Education
• (01:21) Introducing Sarah Schapiro and the Alliance for Learning Innovation
• (02:56) Challenges in Education R&D Funding
• (08:10) State-Level Data Systems and Federal Support
• (10:23) Higher Education and Research Incentives
• (13:12) Venture Capital in EdTech
• (16:30) The Role of Federal Government in Education R&D
• (22:50) Conclusion: Collaboration and Next Steps

Links

• Watch the full video here
• Read the blog here
• Sara Schapiro LinkedIn
• Sara Schapiro Forbes
• Digital Promise 
• Alliance for Learning Innovation (ALI)
• ALI Policy Recommendations for 2025
• The Need Act
• Erin Mote
• Project Unicorn (Interoperability)
• ALI Funding Analysis
• SOLD Alliance
• Reach Capital
• Rethink Impact