Starring Pearson, NordVPN and Powerschool: ETIH rolls out the biggest education technology news stories of the week
It’s Friday, the weekend is almost upon us, so let’s kick back and reflect on another eventful week for the edtech space. Here's your briefing on the most important stories from the past five days, including Pearson, NordVPN, Powerschool and WatchGuard.
NordVPN’s Marijus Briedis says "AI revolution is here" as 60% of Brits regularly use AI chatbots amid growing concerns
As a growing number of teachers are using generative AI to support their teaching and job responsibilities, new research by NordVPN reveals that three-fifths of Brits regularly use AI chatbots.
Marijus Briedis, a cybersecurity expert at NordVPN, underscores the importance of cautious use, "The AI revolution is here, and its rapid adoption is reshaping how we live and work. But while AI chatbots are useful tools, it's important to be mindful of your privacy and security when using them so that you don’t become a target for cybercriminals."
Read the full story.
PowerSchool introduces MyPowerHub for improved school communications
PowerSchool, a provider of cloud-based software for K-12 education in the USA, has introduced MyPowerHub, a new platform designed to streamline school communications and enhance parental engagement.
The platform consolidates essential tools for parents, offering a unified and user-friendly interface in time for the 2024-2025 school year.
Shivani Khanna Stumpf, Chief Product and Innovation Officer at PowerSchool, highlighted the platform's impact:
"We are thrilled to introduce MyPowerHub, which embodies our commitment to enriching the experience for all stakeholders involved in a student’s educational journey."
Read the full story.
Pearson reports Interim Results for first half of 2024 with steady growth
Global education giant Pearson has published its unaudited interim results for the six months ending 30 June 2024, reporting stable revenue growth and robust performance in its assessment and qualifications divisions.
This was driven by strong demand in clinical assessments, UK qualifications, and US student assessment services.
Read the full story.
SEQSTER and Boston University collaborate on Alzheimer's early detection tool
SEQSTER, a company specialising in patient-centric healthcare technology, has announced a collaboration with researchers from Boston University to enhance early-stage clinical screening for Alzheimer's disease.
The project, led by Rhoda Au, Professor of Anatomy and Neurobiology at Boston University School of Medicine, aims to develop a clinical screening tool for Alzheimer's.
Howard Fillit, MD, MD, Co-Founder and Chief Science Officer of the ADDF, highlighted the potential impact: “We know that Alzheimer’s pathology appears at least 20 years before symptoms present, and we don’t yet have the biomarkers or diagnostic tools to identify these changes in real-time."
Read the full story.
Scott Galloway donates $12 Million to UC Berkeley and UCLA to aid non-traditional students
Scott Galloway, a prominent professor, author, and entrepreneur, has donated $12 million to UC Berkeley Extension and UCLA Extension.
Rich Lyons, Chancellor at UC Berkeley, commented:
“Scott's continuing commitment with this donation to the UC Excelerator scholarship and past gifts that support the education of first-generation American students is emblematic of the insight he brings to his philanthropy. He provokes us. He makes us better.”
UCLA Chancellor Gene Block highlighted the importance of Galloway’s gift, saying:
“Scott Galloway’s generous gift will help us continue to widen the doors of opportunity and provide our students with the tools and connections needed to thrive in today’s economy."
Read the full story.
ODI identifies risks to AI boom due to UK tech weaknesses
The Open Data Institute has issued a stark warning about the future of AI in the UK, highlighting significant weaknesses in the country's technology infrastructure that could undermine the anticipated benefits of the AI boom.
The findings are detailed in the ODI's latest whitepaper, "Building a Better Future with Data and AI," based on research conducted in early 2024.
The report identifies several critical issues, including the shortage of high-quality data and the lack of robust governance frameworks, which pose risks to both AI adoption and deployment. These weaknesses threaten the potential economic, social, and individual gains that AI could bring.
Read the full story.
3M and Greenlight for Girls partner to enhance STEM education in the UK and Ireland
In a move to bolster STEM education among young women, 3M has teamed up with greenlight for girls, an international non-profit organisation.
Rachel Owen MCIPR, Head of Brand and Corporate Communications at 3M, highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating:
"We are proud to partner with g4g, as 3M has a rich tradition of inspiring students through STEM activities. This takes place at our major sites and through the encouragement of employee volunteering, especially through our STEM ambassador network."
Read the full story.
WatchGuard strengthens leadership team with key appointments to drive growth
WatchGuard Technologies has announced the appointment of three senior executives to its leadership team, aiming to bolster its channel sales and global marketing efforts.
The new hires include Derek Maggiacomo as Vice President of Americas Sales, Rich Workman as Vice President of Global Renewals Sales, and Karen Ray as Global Vice President of Field and Partner Marketing.
Read the full story.
