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The Rise, Fall, and Revival of EdTech: Where to Next?

Publisher IDC
Published Sep 16, 2025
Length 32 Pages
SKU # IDC20411688

Description

This IDC Perspective analyzes the evolving edtech sector and offers data-driven insights into ecosystem transformation. It guides product and marketing leaders in navigating market shifts, identifying growth opportunities, and preparing for future trends. The report concludes with actionable recommendations to help institutions make informed, strategic decisions on effective edtech adoption and long-term competitiveness."Edtech has moved from pandemic-driven hype to a posthype reality in which AI is no longer a feature but core infrastructure. The winners will be those that embed AI responsibly into trusted ecosystems, prove measurable student outcomes, and deliver flexible, resilient platforms that guarantee learning continuity and enable seamless shifts between physical and digital modes. Features do not win markets anymore. Trust, transparency, and alignment with institutional goals do," says Ravi Kant Sharma, research director, IDC Asia/Pacific Government and Education Worldwide Insights.

Table of Contents

32 Pages

Executive Snapshot

Situation Overview

Purpose and Scope

Key Findings at a Glance

Phase 1 (2020–2022): The Boom

Pandemic-Driven Surge and Digital Urgency

Investment Boom and Expansion Across Segments

Phase 2 (2022–2024): The Correction

Market Correction, Strategic Reassessment, and the Emergence of AI

Phase 3 (Mid-2024 to the Present): The Revival

Stabilization and Institutional Realignment

Innovation Frontiers and Future Signals

Winners and Losers

Next-Stage Growth Drivers and Inhibitors

Strategic Implications for Edtech Vendors

Go-To-Market Strategies in Edtech

Phase 1 (2020–2022): The Edtech Boom

Pandemic Disruption as Catalyst

Surge in Adoption and Investment

Trends by Education Segment

K-12 Market Drivers and Responses

Higher Education: Transition and Opportunity

Skills-Based Learning: Acceleration and Monetization

Global Funding and Valuation Trends

Regional Perspectives

North America

Europe, Middle East, and Africa

Asia/Pacific

Latin America

Phase 2 (2022–2024): The Market Correction and AI Pivot

Return to In-Person Learning and Demand Recalibration

Drop in Venture Capital and Public Valuations

Institutional Procurement Shifts and Budget Pressures

Regulatory Impacts and Business Model Stress Tests

The Rise of GenAI in Education

Regional Impacts

North America

EMEA

Asia/Pacific

Latin America

Winners and Losers: What Worked, What Did Not

Categories That Performed Well in 2020–2024

Skills-Based and Lifelong Learning Models

AI-Powered Learning Tools

Gamified Learning

Digital Assessment and Proctoring Platforms

Teacher Productivity Platforms

LMS and LXP

Immersive and Simulation-Based Learning

Hybrid/Hyflex Learning Infrastructure

Language Learning and Consumer Apps

Digital Accessibility and Inclusive Design Tools

Learning Analytics Solutions

Categories Struggling Coming Out of the Edtech Correction

D2C K-12 Tutoring (especially China and India)

OPMs

Fully Online Virtual Classroom Platforms

Test Prep and Low-Stickiness Content Tools

Phase 3 (2024 to Present): The Edtech Revival

Stabilization and Strategic Refocus

Institutional Priorities Driving Edtech Demand

Outcome‑Based Procurement

Equity and Access

Hybrid/Hyflex Infrastructure

Security and Privacy

Teacher Enablement and Human Connection at Scale

The New Wave of Innovation and Investment Signals

GenAI and Agentic AI

Mobile-First Adoption as a Delivery Driver

Immersive and Simulation-Based Learning

Learning Analytics and Evidence-Based Platforms

Digital Accessibility and Compliance Software

Growth Drivers and Inhibitors for the Next 12–36 Months

Edtech Categories Poised for Growth

Regional Market Outlook: What Is Next?

North America

EMEA

Asia/Pacific

Latin America

Strategic Implications for Edtech Vendors

Lessons from the Boom and Bust

Navigating Procurement, Regulation, and AI Governance in Edtech

Go-To-Market Considerations by Region and Segment

North America

EMEA

Asia/Pacific

Latin America

Recommendations for Product and Marketing Leaders

Advice for the Technology Buyer

Learn More

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