WELCOME MESSAGE
Welcome to the
5th
Edition of “Forward Thinking: EdTech Insights”
Welcome to our latest issue of the Forward Thinking EdTech Digest!
This month, we’re diving into the exciting world of entrepreneurship. We are thrilled to feature guest writer Brooke Myers, who will share insights on how educators can harness their skills to become successful entrepreneurs.
In addition to Brooke’s article, we have gathered a collection of guest quotes that explore the future of edtech and what lies ahead for innovators in this space.
We also aim to empower our readers with guidance on networking opportunities and resources specifically tailored for entrepreneurs.
Moreover, we are excited to announce that we will continue offering guest expert spots for those interested in contributing to our upcoming editions.
Thank you for joining us on this journey in exploring the intersection of education and entrepreneurship!
EDITOR’S NOTE
Dr. Sher Downing
Would you like to see our monthly eMagazine in your inbox?
Click here to add your details: bit.ly/DETeMagazine
Got a burning question or a topic you’d like us to cover? Drop us an email at edtechclients@downingedtechconsulting.com, and we’ll make sure to address it in an upcoming issue. Let’s dive in and unleash that entrepreneurial spirit together!
IN THE HEADLINES
As an entrepreneur, you are likely focused on understanding industry trends, business news, and effective strategies for managing your operations and sales, including key performance indicators (KPIs) and return on investment (ROI). Whether you are just starting your entrepreneurial journey, looking to enhance your knowledge, or considering a venture during mid-retirement, we have compiled a selection of valuable resources to support you.
These resources will provide insights into entrepreneurship, help you navigate the complexities of running a business, and offer guidance for your growth and success. Below, you will find links to essential materials that will aid you in your entrepreneurial endeavors.
Entrepreneur Magazine
Forbe Entrepreneurs
Morning
Harvard
MUST READS & INFLUENCERS
Each year, we compile lists to highlight the individuals who are shaping our industry. Whether you are a new entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, many remarkable people are making significant contributions and driving our industry forward.
Congratulations to everyone featured in the 2024 list! Your impact is truly inspiring! Top 100 Influencers in EdTech 2024 Top 25 Education Technology Influencers on Instagram in 2024
Best EdTech Influencers & Leaders to Follow in 2024
TECH TOOL BOX
In each edition of our newsletter, we bring you the latest items from the tech toolbox that are at the forefront of innovation. These cutting-edge tools and technologies are designed to make a significant impact on both business and everyday life. Join us as we explore how these advancements can enhance your operations, improve efficiency, and transform the way you live and work.
Here’s a list of tools you may never have heard of that can help you stay on top of the game:
THE TRAILBLAZER’S TOOLKIT: 7 BEST TECH TOOL FOR INNOVATORS
Here’s a list on the top trends and technologies of the year:
Technological advancement, or robot takeover?
20 TECH EXPERTS ON THE TOOLS AND TRENDS THAT WILL DOMINATE 2024 THIS COULD BE THE START OF AMAZON’S NEXT ROBOT REVOLUTION
Another way AI is quietly being implemented in creative ways:
NATIONAL EDTECH DAY
National EdTech Day is September 23rd! Join us in celebrating all the wonderful technology that makes educational experiences more effective, more engaging, and more impactful. EdTech Day encourages educators, students, and technology enthusiasts to explore the latest advancements, share best practices, and discuss the future of educational technology.
The history of National EdTech Day traces back to a growing recognition of the role technology plays in modernizing education. With new advancements and implementations of technologies in both brickand-mortar and virtual classrooms, every year offers more to celebrate. The day serves as a reminder of how far education has come, thanks to technological innovations, and it aims to inspire continued progress and collaboration in the field. By celebrating National EdTech Day, stakeholders in education are reminded of the importance of integrating technology thoughtfully and effectively to enhance learning experiences and outcomes. Today’s entrepreneurs can create tools and options to help educators and companies develop even better learning opportunities.
So join us this month in celebrating how far we’ve come and how far we are yet to go!
What’s your favorite EdTech Tool?
OUR GUEST EXPERTS
Welcome to our special guest expert section, where we bring you insights and expertise from the brightest minds across various fields. In each edition, we have the privilege of featuring distinguished professionals, thought leaders, and innovators who generously share their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives with our readers.
From renowned academics to industry trailblazers, our guest experts provide invaluable insights, offering fresh perspectives and expert opinions on a wide range of topics. Whether it’s the latest advancements in technology, trends in business, insights into health and wellness, or discussions on societal issues, our guest experts deliver compelling content that informs, inspires, and challenges our readers.
Each edition promises a unique opportunity to delve into the minds of these experts, gaining access to their wealth of knowledge and expertise. We invite you to join us on this enlightening journey as we engage with thought leaders shaping the future and explore the cutting-edge ideas shaping our world.
Prepare to be inspired, informed, and empowered by the wisdom of our esteemed guest experts. Welcome to a section where expertise meets excellence.
FROM THE CLASSROOM TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Contributed by BROOKE MYERS
Chief Executive Officer, B Creative
I dreamt of my life as a teacher. I always envisioned myself in a classroom - shaping the young minds of the incoming generation, until COVID-19. The pandemic widened the cracks from years of underfunding education.
I faced extreme burnout after adapting to virtual distance learning. I had to practice what I preached with my students and believe that I could accomplish anything I put my mind to. All teachers have been students, but few call themselves entrepreneurs. The path from teacher to business owner may seem unlikely, but the skills overlap more than you think.
Before the pandemic, I had taught the same lessons to thousands of kids, spanning several school districts in Central Texas. I had countless data points on common misconceptions students held about the concepts in my lesson, “Rabbits and Resources”, defining what living things needed in their ecosystem. I was met with the usual misconceptions until a young girl explained, “Actually, trees exercise when the breeze passes through their leaves.” I had never thought about it from that perspective and was rejuvenated in an instant.
This is why educators are perfectly suited for entrepreneurship: even when you know a lot, you never know everything. As an educator, an open mind is necessary because we are constantly improving the way we teach. Being vulnerable enough to learn from a child and admitting that you don’t know everything is crucial for an entrepreneur who is innovating, disrupting, and wearing every hat imaginable running a business. Our world is constantly changing - what might have worked four years ago won’t even come close today and it’s vital that we remain flexible.
The teacher to entrepreneur pipeline is becoming more appealing as education remains defunded and working conditions continue to deteriorate. However, these negative changes have the opportunity to produce a new pool of talent with emotional complexity that can inspire inclusive and versatile communities like we’ve never seen before. It can be hard to understand how to translate your experience to the world of business, but I’m here to support any fellow teachers with a complimentary LinkedIn review to put your best foot forward!
VOICES OF EXPERIENCE
Insights from Guest Experts
In today’s rapidly changing landscape, the insights of experts can shed light on intricate subjects and enhance decision-making. This page features a curated selection of quotes from distinguished professionals across various domains, providing a glimpse into their expertise and perspectives. We have reached out to experts on LinkedIn to share their valuable wisdom, enriching our understanding of key topics.
JEFFREY BROWN
Fractional Executive, JAB Mentoring, LLC
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-a-brown/
What do you see as the greatest EdTech challenge for this coming school year?
Writing the policies to support bringing AI into the school educational system.
What do you see as the next big impact in EdTech?
Teaching students necessary cognitive skills to excel in the workplace. How do you recommend incorporating innovation while balancing standard requirements?
Innovation is about teaching resilience and allowing room for growth through getting it wrong. Students should have opportunities to correct their mistakes and graded on what they can learn to accomplish instead of the number of test questions they got right/wrong.
HUSSAIN ALI
eLearning Developer, Arbisoft
https://arbisoft.com/
What do you see as the greatest EdTech challenge for this coming school year?
The distance or moving away from the online learning system.
What do you see as the next big impact in EdTech?
The use of technology enables one to stay connected to the world.
JUGGLING HATS
My Entrepreneurial Adventure (And How You Can Thrive Too)
Contributed by SUMMER ZIFKO Innovation Officer
INSIGHTS FROM OUR TEAM OF EXPERTS
So, here’s my current situation: I’m a virtual assistant, an online business manager, a residential and commercial real estate agent, a real estate investor, and a property manager with multiple rentals. Yes, that’s a lot of hats to wear! But, believe it or not, this high-octane blend of responsibilities is what keeps my entrepreneurial spirit alive and kicking. I started this journey nearly 13 years ago out of necessity and desire to exit the unbending corporate world. Whether on shaky ground or with steady footing, each day is a step closer to building a life and creating a legacy of wealth.
The Perks of Being an Entrepreneur
Let’s start with the good stuff—the reasons why being an entrepreneur is, hands down, the best decision I ever made. First off, freedom. As an entrepreneur, I set my own schedule. Need to make that last minute vet appointment? Go for it! Need to squeeze in a mid-morning coffee with a client? Done! The flexibility to mold my workday around my life, rather than the other way around, is priceless.
Then there’s the variety. My days are never dull, that’s for sure. One minute I’m negotiating a commercial lease, the next I’m helping a client streamline their business operations as an online business manager. And let’s not forget the adrenaline rush that comes with real estate investing—there’s nothing quite like finding a hidden gem of a property.
But the best part? The sense of accomplishment. Every small victory— whether it’s closing a deal, solving a tricky problem for a client, or simply seeing a project through to completion—feels like a personal win. As an entrepreneur, I get to see the direct results of my hard work, and that’s incredibly rewarding.
The Skills That Keep the Wheels Turning
Now, let’s talk about the skills that make this crazy ride possible. First and foremost, time management is king. With so many roles to juggle, I’ve had to master the art of prioritizing tasks, setting realistic deadlines, and—perhaps most importantly—knowing when to say no. Trust me, it’s harder than it sounds!
Next up is adaptability. The entrepreneurial world is unpredictable, and things don’t always go according to plan. Being able to pivot, come up with creative solutions on the fly, and stay calm under pressure is crucial.
Communication is another biggie. Whether I’m negotiating a real estate deal, managing a client’s virtual team, or simply keeping tenants happy, clear and effective communication is key. And let’s not forget about networking—building and maintaining strong relationships is essential in every aspect of my work.
Finally, there’s the ever-present need for self-discipline. When you’re your own boss, there’s no one looking over your shoulder to make sure you’re getting things done. It’s up to you to stay motivated, keep pushing forward, and hold yourself accountable.
How You Can Level Up
So, you’re intrigued by the entrepreneurial lifestyle? Awesome! Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your game to the next level, here are a few tips to help you along the way:
Start Small, Think Big: Don’t be afraid to start with just one hat. Focus on mastering one area—whether it’s virtual assistance, real estate, or another passion—and gradually expand as you gain confidence and experience.
Invest in Your Skills: Entrepreneurship requires a diverse skill set, so never stop learning. Take courses, read books, and seek out mentors who can help you sharpen your skills and broaden your knowledge.
Network Like a Pro: Building a strong network is essential. Attend industry events, join online communities, and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs. You never know where your next opportunity might come from.
Embrace Failure: Let’s be real—failure is part of the journey. Instead of fearing it, use it as a learning experience. Each setback is an opportunity to grow, refine your approach, and come back stronger.
Stay Organized: With so many moving parts, staying organized is nonnegotiable. Find tools and systems that work for you, whether it’s a project management app, a detailed planner, or good old-fashioned sticky notes.
Enjoy the Ride: Entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small, and make sure to take breaks and recharge when needed. After all, the journey is just as important as the destination.
Reflective Thoughts
Being an entrepreneur is a wild, unpredictable, and incredibly fulfilling adventure. It’s not always easy, but the rewards—both personal and professional—are more than worth it. So, whether you’re thinking about diving into entrepreneurship or looking to enhance your current business, remember: with the right skills, mindset, and a bit of grit, you can absolutely make it happen. Here’s to your next entrepreneurial victory!
BE OUR GUEST REACH
Will you be our next guest expert? We welcome you to share your expertise with our vibrant community of learners and enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned professional with years of experience or a rising star in your field, we invite you to join us and contribute to the collective knowledge and growth of our community. Your insights, tips, and real-world experiences could inspire and empower others on their learning journey. So, come on board and be a part of our mission to foster collaboration, curiosity, and continuous learning.
OUR RESOURCES
KNOWLEDGE SHARE
Let us be your experts! Our platform connects you with top-notch edtech experts covering coding, project management, and cutting-edge innovations. Get invaluable insights and tailored support for your learning journey. Contact us to connect with experts tailored to your needs: https://www.downingedtechconsulting.com/contact
EVENTS AND COMMUNITY
Get ready for a treasure trove of knowledge in our upcoming webinars and live sessions! We’re thrilled to offer you a diverse range of events designed to enrich your learning experience. From expert-led workshops to interactive discussions and curated resources, we’ve got everything you need to stay informed, inspired, and engaged. Join us as we explore the latest trends, share valuable insights, and connect with fellow learners from around the globe. https://calendly.com/downingedtech/lets-connect
ONLINE COURSES
Explore our selection of self-paced learning opportunities tailored to your professional needs. Dive into the realms of law, business, and design, where our courses are designed to equip you with essential skills and knowledge to excel in your career. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your legal acumen, enhance your business strategies, or unleash your creativity in design, our online courses offer flexible, convenient learning experiences to fit your schedule and goals. Visit our site today to discover how we can help you unlock your full potential and achieve success in your chosen field.Visit our site and learn more about our online courses. Self-paced in the areas of law, business, and design to help you with your business needs.
VISIT OUR SITE
OUR SERVICES
CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION TO GET STARTED
Are you an entrepreneur or institution trying to manage and grow your online programs or courses and struggling to keep up? We can help.
eLEARNING SOLUTIONS
Unlock the potential of your online training and courses with our team of eLearning experts. We specialize in designing and developing custom online programs, managing them effectively, and strategically planning for their maintenance and growth. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a small to mid-sized business, or an educational institution, we offer tailored solutions to meet your needs.
Our Services Include:
• Custom Online Training & Course Development: Engage your audience with expertly crafted content.
• Program Management & Strategic Planning: Ensure seamless operation and future growth.
FRACTIONAL SERVICES
Unlock the potential of your online training and courses with our team of eLearning experts. We specialize in designing and developing custom online programs, managing them effectively, and strategically planning for their maintenance and growth. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a small to mid-sized business, or an educational institution, we offer tailored solutions to meet your needs.
Our Services Include:
• Custom Online Training & Course Development: Engage your audience with expertly crafted content.
• Program Management & Strategic Planning: Ensure seamless operation and future growth.
• Fractional Services: Step in as needed to create new opportunities and enhance existing programs. Our Fractional Services encompass:
• Online Program Management: Oversee the smooth execution and scalability of your online programs.
• Coaching and Mentoring of Online Learning Managers: Develop your team’s skills to manage and excel in the eLearning environment.
• Comprehensive System Review: Evaluate everything from your Student Information System (SIS) and Learning Management System (LMS) to the overall student experience, ensuring a holistic and optimized approach.
VENDOR CONNECT
Are You a Vendor? Join our partnership network and connect with potential clients. Looking for the Right Technology? We maintain partnerships with a wide range of technology providers and rigorously test their solutions. Let us help you assess your needs and recommend the right tools, along with connecting you to prospective vendors.
OUR OUTREACH
CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION TO GET STARTED
Are you looking to get your face/voice/brand more exposure? We have high-performing outreach efforts that may work for you.
FORWARD THINKING EDTECH DIGEST EMAGAZINE
• Guest Expert Contributor: Be featured as a guest expert contributor and showcase your knowledge to our extensive audience.
• Sponsorship Opportunities: Gain visibility and brand recognition through our tailored sponsorship opportunities.
• Advertise Your Brand and Products/Services: Promote your brand and products/ services to a targeted and engaged audience.
FORWARD THINKING EXPERTS PODCAST
• Guest interview: Share your knowledge and expertise while featuring your product or service on our award-winning podcast. Gain visibility on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and enjoy additional promotion on YouTube. Now in our sixth year, we’re expanding our focus to include Thought Leaders in business, education, and technology, all intersected with a human-centric approach.
• Sponsorship Opportunities: Gain visibility and brand recognition through our tailored sponsorship opportunities.
• Advertise Your Brand and Products/Services: Promote your brand and products/ services to a targeted and engaged audience.
FORWARD THINKING EXPERTS
Leadership Award
Finalist
Exciting news! We’re thrilled to announce that our monthly podcast, EdTech Speaks, has been recognized as a finalist for the Leadership Award at The EdTech Awards 2024, presented by EdTech Digest. Launched in June 2019, our podcast has produced over 50 engaging episodes, reaching an international audience and earning recognition on platforms like Spotify. Thank you for your continued support!
Hosted by DR. SHER DOWNING CEO & EdTech Strategist
OUR LATEST EPISODES
In the July podcast, Sher sat down with Namit Jindal, founder of Deliverability Ninja, discussing the importance of effective sales strategies and email deliverability for startups and small businesses.
He emphasizes the need to focus on sales from the beginning and highlights the impact of email deliverability on open rates and replies. Namit explains the process of working with his company, which includes optimizing email deliverability, crafting compelling offers, and scraping email lists.
Namit says, “Sales should be a priority from the beginning...crafting compelling offers and targeting the right audience.”
LISTEN NOW
In the latest episode of the Forward Thinking Podcast, we sit down with Prashant Raizada, the visionary behind Lumi—a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to empowering young people to tackle the world’s most pressing global issues. Lumi equips students with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world, disrupted by advancements in AI and other technologies.
LISTEN NOW
Key Discussion Points:
• Empowering Youth
• The Future of Education
• AI and Education
• Real-World Application
• Conscious Consumerism
Providing access and opportunities for current and future members of the EdTech industry to connect.
2024 EdTech Conference Calendar
Explore the latest in educational technology conferences organized by leading education associations and industry groups in 2024. Use the filters in the table below to sort by sector, geography, and date. Look for the “Industry” tag to find conferences with a strong focus on business, investment, and finance.
https://www.reachcapital.com/2024-edtech-conferencecalendar/
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
SEE HOW WE CAN HELP MOVE YOUR IDEAS FORWARD
Class Central - List of Learning Conferences in 2024
Class Central has compiled a list of online learning conferences taking place in 2024. This list is updated as new events are announced. There is also a list of conference recordings with hundreds of hours of online educational talks.
https://www.classcentral.com/report/online-learningconferences/
OUR COMMUNITY
Get ready to revolutionize your edtech experience with our upcoming Forward Thinking community! Join a dynamic network of learners, from seasoned professionals to eager beginners, all united in their passion for exploring the latest trends and technologies.
Imagine connecting with like-minded individuals in your field, discussing local learning opportunities, and collaborating on exciting projects. Our community is more than just an online course platform—it’s a vibrant space to connect, grow, and thrive together.
Stay tuned for an unparalleled experience filled with networking events, virtual meetups, and a wealth of resources to support your tech journey. Whether you’re seeking a career change or looking to expand your horizons, our Forward Thinking community has something for everyone. Get ready to dive in, geek out, and join the edtech revolution—all from the comfort of your own screen.
NOW AVAILABLE!
We’ve just launched a new micro-course series centered around launching a marketplace, covering all the topics that you need to know in order to be successful. Available as individual micro-courses or bundled together, you can pick and choose the topics that you need or get the full package. Included in this series:
• Choosing the Right Platform: Navigating the Marketplace Ecosystem
• Building Your Marketplace Tech Stack: Crafting the Essential Tools for Success
• Mastering Content Strategy: Defining Objectives and Captivating Your Audience
• Managing Subject Matter Experts (SMEs): Leveraging Expertise for Marketplace Success
• Talent Acquisition for Marketplace Development: Identifying Essential Skills and Roles
• In-House vs. Outsourced Marketing: Deciding the Best Approach for Your Marketplace
• Effective Pricing Strategies: Positioning Your Products for Profitability
• Fostering a Thriving Community: Building Engagement and Loyalty
• Amplifying Your Marketplace’s Reach: Expanding Presence on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Beyond
• Strategic Planning for Long-Term Growth: Envisioning Your Marketplace’s Future
Want more help? Sign up for coaching options with your selected microcourse!
