The U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Educational Technology (OET) plays a critical role in shaping how technology can revolutionize learning across all stages of education—from early learners in K-12 to higher and adult education, as stated by the Open Access Government. By developing national policies and fostering innovation, the OET aims to create an inclusive and technology-driven educational ecosystem.

To achieve its ambitious goals, the OET focuses on five key strategies:

1. Ensuring equitable access to transformative learning technologies.
2. Supporting tailored professional development for educators and school leaders.
3. Expanding access to broadband and cost-effective digital learning tools, both in schools and homes.
4. Cultivating a vibrant ecosystem of educational entrepreneurs and creators.
5. Conducting innovative research to personalize and enhance learning experiences.

The office collaborates with federal agencies and connects with the education technology development community to integrate technology into teaching and learning effectively. As part of the Office of Planning, Evaluation, and Policy Development, the OET’s initiatives are deeply rooted in its Digital Equity & Opportunity vision, which seeks to provide all students and educators the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.

Digital equity has become a pressing issue, underscored during the pandemic when many families and schools struggled to bridge the digital divide. The Digital Equity Act of 2022 allocated $2.75 billion to support nationwide efforts to close this gap, ensuring that all individuals and communities benefit from the digital economy.

“Digital equity has never felt more urgent. But our opportunity to deliver digital equity has never felt more within reach,” remarked U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. He emphasized that students lacking reliable broadband access face challenges such as lower homework completion rates, GPA, and college success. With funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the U.S. is making significant strides toward ensuring equitable access to digital tools and internet connectivity.

AI is increasingly shaping the educational landscape, becoming a priority for the OET. In May 2023, the office released a report titled Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Future of Teaching and Learning: Insights and Recommendations, highlighting both opportunities and risks associated with AI in education.
According to the report, AI offers transformative possibilities:

• Enhancing accessibility for multilingual learners and students with disabilities.
• Supporting educators with tools for lesson planning, content customization, and personalized feedback.
• Connecting educators and students in innovative ways.

However, AI also presents challenges, including potential algorithmic bias, privacy concerns, and the misuse of AI for academic dishonesty. Educators remain cautious, recognizing that while AI can support learning, safeguards must ensure that risks are mitigated.

The OET continues to refine policies and strategies that integrate AI responsibly into classrooms. By fostering collaboration among educators, technologists, and policymakers, the U.S. Department of Education aims to harness AI’s potential while ensuring safety, trust, and equity in education.

The U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Educational Technology stands at the forefront of integrating technology and AI into education. With a focus on digital equity and the thoughtful application of AI, the OET is paving the way for a future where every student and educator can thrive in a digitally connected world.