The proliferation of free apps in the wake of the global pandemic created a wild west scenario, prompting schools to reconsider and regain control over their digital landscape. In the ever-evolving landscape of educational technology, schools must navigate the challenges posed by the deceptive allure of "free" apps. By embracing vendor management solutions and empowering Technology Directors and Data Protection Officers, schools can reclaim control over their digital ecosystem and prioritise the protection of sensitive student data.
Introduction: The rise of EdTech
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, schools faced unprecedented challenges with moving teaching to fully online and a sudden surge of free educational apps. Teachers had to swiftly pivot to meet students' learning needs in an online environment, but what seemed like convenient solutions came with hidden costs. The proliferation of free apps created a wild west scenario where teachers could easily sign up to use various tools, while technology teams required new ways to regain control of their digital ecosystem.
The hidden costs of 'free'
In a recent podcast discussion with ATLIS and our CEO & Founder, Mark Orchison, panellists highlighted a crucial issue – the misconception that free apps come without a price. While these tools may not demand monetary payment, they require something far more valuable: data. The exchange for free services is the surrender of personal information, a commodity that schools can no longer afford to overlook.
Articles recently published to the BBC reveal the real impact cyber attacks can have on schools when third party vendor platforms are compromised.
Awareness of the true cost of using these applications is a significant hurdle. Many educators may not fully grasp that, in the digital realm, nothing is genuinely free. The challenge lies in communicating this concept clearly to both teachers and students. The responsibility falls on schools to bridge this knowledge gap and instil an awareness of the risks associated with the seemingly costless apps.
Vendor management
To address these challenges, schools are exploring vendor management solutions. A technology solution, often likened to the "Netflix of ed tech vendors," helps schools evaluate and pre-qualify vendors based on their terms, conditions, and data usage policies. In the United States, several states have enacted specific vendor laws, requiring schools to understand and evaluate the data practices of the vendors they engage with.
Empowering Technology Directors
Technology Directors play a crucial role in safeguarding schools from data vulnerabilities. They need to feel empowered to say no to excessive data requests from vendors. Understanding the necessity of data and cybersecurity evaluations, Technology Directors can assertively negotiate terms with vendors to ensure the protection of sensitive information.
The role of 9ine’s Vendor Management solution
Our Vendor Management solution is designed to simplify the vendor evaluation process. This platform prequalifies vendors, identifies weaknesses in their terms and conditions, and awards Certified Vendor status to vendors adhering to professional data privacy standards. This system empowers schools to make informed decisions about the vendors they engage with, contributing to a safer digital environment for both educators and students.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving landscape of educational technology, schools must navigate the challenges posed by the deceptive allure of "free" apps. By embracing vendor management solutions and empowering technology directors, schools can reclaim control over their digital ecosystem and prioritise the protection of sensitive student data. Ultimately, general awareness is key to fostering a culture where the true cost of "free" is fully understood and actively addressed.
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