Munachiso Angela Muoneke, University of the Potomac, USA

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the disruption of conventional education systems, which led to the adoption of digital and remote learning platforms. This revolutionary change uncovered the need for new approaches in the development of educational technology. This paper emphasizes the importance of data analytics during this time and provides a framework for how data can inform effective EdTech developments for teaching and learning. This study aims to understand how real-time data from learning management systems, virtual classrooms, and engagement metrics can offer valuable insights into students’ behaviors, learning styles, and academic difficulties. Such insights help educators, technologists, and policymakers develop adaptive learning solutions tailored to the different needs of students. Through the presentation of case studies and real-world examples, this paper explains how the use of data-driven innovations has led to enhanced student success, effective teaching practices, and the reduction of learning disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the paper critically discusses the ethical challenges that are linked to educational data analytics including privacy concerns, bias-free learning analytics, and ensuring there is equity in the provision of technology to learners. It also highlights the importance of transparency, inclusivity, and collaborative input of all stakeholders to ensure the development of ethical and more sustainable EdTech solutions.

Educational Technology (EdTech), Data Analytics in Education, Pandemic-Era Innovations, Learning Management Systems (LMS), Digital Equity.