Digital Promise Offers Free Framework for Tech Pilot Programs

Without a public registry of ed-tech products, it can be challenging to evaluate product effectiveness and quality. Education leaders and technology developers looking to introduce pilot programs can now consult a step-by-step framework developed by Digital Promise, a nonprofit organization working to accelerate innovation in education.

The Ed-Tech Pilot Framework offers an eight-step blueprint: identify need; discover and select; planning; train and implement; collect data; analyze and decide, negotiate and purchase; and summarize and share. District leaders can use the free online tool “to plan and lead effective pilots” using “actionable, research-based tools and resources, and helpful tips,” according to a blog post announcement.

“We’re in an age now where tech is moving so rapidly and we don’t want to just do something to do it. We want to be able to analyze results,” Todd Keruskin, assistant superintendent at Elizabeth Forward School District, said in the announcement.

To create the framework, the Digital Promise examined pilot studies of 15 products used over the last three years in 14 Digital Promise League of Innovation Schools, a national network that encourages district innovation.

To explore the framework, visit the Digital Promise site.

About the Author

Sri Ravipati is Web producer for THE Journal and Campus Technology. She can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • laptop with AI symbol on screen

    Google Launches Lightweight Gemma 3n, Expanding Emphasis on Edge AI

    Google DeepMind has officially launched Gemma 3n, the latest version of its lightweight generative AI model designed specifically for mobile and edge devices — a move that reinforces the company's focus on on-device computing.

  • The AI Show

    Register for Free to Attend the World's Greatest Show for All Things AI in EDU

    The AI Show @ ASU+GSV, held April 5–7, 2025, at the San Diego Convention Center, is a free event designed to help educators, students, and parents navigate AI's role in education. Featuring hands-on workshops, AI-powered networking, live demos from 125+ EdTech exhibitors, and keynote speakers like Colin Kaepernick and Stevie Van Zandt, the event offers practical insights into AI-driven teaching, learning, and career opportunities. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to integrate AI into classrooms while exploring innovations that promote equity, accessibility, and student success.

  • abstract pattern of cybersecurity, ai and cloud imagery

    Report Identifies Malicious Use of AI in Cloud-Based Cyber Threats

    A recent report from OpenAI identifies the misuse of artificial intelligence in cybercrime, social engineering, and influence operations, particularly those targeting or operating through cloud infrastructure. In "Disrupting Malicious Uses of AI: June 2025," the company outlines how threat actors are weaponizing large language models for malicious ends — and how OpenAI is pushing back.

  • laptop on a desk with its screen displaying numerous colorful educational app icons

    Survey Finds Majority of Schools Using 10 to 15 Educational Apps

    A new report points to the fragmented digital landscape of educational apps in use at schools and districts across the country.