What do you do if educational technology isn't advancing your career prospects as expected?

Review your initial career expectations in edtech. Analyze current industry trends and job market demands. Identify any gaps between your skills and in-demand competencies. Consider specializing in a high-growth area of edtech. Evaluate if your current role aligns with your long-term career aspirations. Explore adjacent fields that combine edtech with other disciplines. Set new, realistic goals based on your reassessment. Develop a revised career plan with actionable steps and timelines.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with new technology tools and platforms. Whether it’s a new learning management system, a classroom app, or an innovative teaching tool, hands-on experience can deepen your understanding and demonstrate your willingness to innovate.

Identify key skills gaps in your edtech knowledge base. Enroll in relevant online courses or certification programs. Attend workshops and webinars on emerging edtech trends. Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge edtech tools and platforms. Develop proficiency in data analytics and AI applications in education. Enhance your project management and leadership skills. Stay updated on the latest research in learning sciences and pedagogy. Consider cross-training in complementary fields like UX design or content creation.

Start by identifying companies you already admire and engage with them. On LinkedIn, locate the People tab and start connecting with professionals in those companies. What’s the harm in reaching out? Chances are, they'll take a look at your profile. Keep your profile updated, and make it a habit to comment on posts from people at companies you're interested in. Remember, this is a long game—nurture those relationships over time.

Start by offering to guest lecture or run workshops at local universities or community colleges. Sharing your expertise through one-off sessions can introduce you to the academic environment and help you build a reputation as an expert in within the education community.

If educational technology isn't advancing your career prospects as expected, it's essential to reflect on how you're utilising it. Are you leveraging technology to its full potential, or merely scratching the surface? Consider how you can integrate technology more creatively into your work processes. For instance, you could use data analytics tools to track student progress and tailor your teaching methods accordingly. Additionally, showcase your tech skills to potential employers by creating a digital portfolio that highlights your proficiency with various educational technologies. Attend EdTech networking events to stay updated on the latest trends and share experiences with other educators.

Request constructive feedback from colleagues and supervisors. Conduct informational interviews with successful edtech professionals. Engage with mentors to gain insights on career progression. Participate in professional development sessions for targeted feedback. Seek input from learners and educators on your edtech implementations. Analyze user feedback on edtech projects you've worked on. Request performance reviews to identify areas for improvement. Join peer review groups to receive balanced, diverse feedback.