Educational Technology Ecosystem
Run the Ed-Tech Ecosystem MicroSim Fullscreen
Description
This interactive diagram visualizes the ecosystem of educational technology as a series of concentric rings centered on the Learner. The visualization demonstrates how different technology layers work together to support and enhance the learning experience.
Interactive Features
- Hover over any component to see its description and role in the ecosystem
- Click on a component to see examples of specific tools in that category
- Navigate using the built-in navigation buttons (zoom and pan)
The Four Rings
Center: The Learner (Orange)
At the heart of all educational technology is the learner. Every tool, platform, and service in the ecosystem exists to support their learning journey.
Inner Ring: Direct Learning Tools (Blue)
These are the tools that learners interact with directly:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| MicroSims | Interactive simulations for hands-on exploration |
| Video Content | Pre-recorded and live video instruction |
| Reading Materials | Text-based educational resources |
| Practice Exercises | Activities for applying knowledge |
Middle Ring: Support Systems (Green)
Platforms that organize, manage, and enhance the learning experience:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| LMS | Learning Management Systems that organize courses |
| Assessment Tools | Evaluation and feedback systems |
| Communication Platforms | Collaboration and interaction tools |
| Content Authoring Tools | Software for creating educational content |
Outer Ring: Infrastructure (Gray)
The technological foundation that enables everything:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Cloud Services | Scalable hosting and computing |
| Analytics Platforms | Data collection and learning insights |
| AI/ML Services | Artificial intelligence for personalization |
| Accessibility Tools | Ensuring content is available to all |
Understanding the Connections
Each edge in the diagram is labeled to show the relationship between components:
- Inner Ring to Learner: Shows how learners engage (explores, watches, studies, practices)
- Middle Ring to Inner Ring: Shows support functions (delivers, organizes, evaluates, creates)
- Outer Ring to Middle Ring: Shows infrastructure services (hosts, scales, tracks, assists)
Learning Objectives
By exploring this diagram, students will be able to:
- Identify the major categories of educational technology
- Explain how different technology layers interconnect
- Understand the learner-centered approach to ed-tech design
- Recognize examples of tools in each category
Use Cases
This visualization is useful for:
- Instructional Designers: Understanding the technology landscape
- EdTech Developers: Seeing where their tools fit in the ecosystem
- Educators: Selecting appropriate tools for their needs
- Students: Understanding the technologies supporting their learning
References
- Anderson, T., & Dron, J. (2011). Three generations of distance education pedagogy. International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning.
- Siemens, G. (2005). Connectivism: A learning theory for the digital age. International Journal of Instructional Technology and Distance Learning.