Week in Edtech 4/16/2025: ASU+GSV Recap, GPT-4.1 Launch, Harvard vs. DEI Mandates, Linda McMahon’s Edtech Debut, Claude’s Study Mode, Yuanfudao’s AI Tutor, Brisk Wins GSV Cup, and More! Feat. Collin Earnst of the EdTech Leadership Collective

Apr 25, 2025

Collin Earnst, founder of the EdTech Leadership Collective, discusses the latest in educational technology. He reflects on the energy from the ASU+GSV conference and highlights key trends in AI integration and market consolidation. The conversation takes a turn as they explore Harvard's pushback against federal DEI mandates and the implications for higher education. Collin emphasizes the need for innovative leadership in EdTech and the importance of human connections amidst rapid technological changes.

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INSIGHT

Funding Shift from Universities?

The federal government's cutbacks could shift R&D funding from universities to private enterprise.
This reflects a cultural and political shift that may not last but impacts long-term education and research.

INSIGHT

China's State-Driven AI EdTech

China is aggressively integrating AI into education with state-backed, broad-scope edtech solutions.
Their integrated AI learning machines contrast with US market fragmentation and highlight different governance models.

INSIGHT

Multimodal AI Driving EdTech Innovation

OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic are racing in multimodal AI tools with different strengths.
Multimodal AI, especially video generation, is becoming crucial for future educational applications.

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Join hosts Alex Sarlin and Ben Kornell as they explore the latest developments in education technology, from ASU+GSV insights to AI model releases, international edtech innovations, and federal policy shake-ups.

✨ Episode Highlights:

[00:01:45] ASU+GSV recap and post-conference energy
[00:04:48] Strategic AI integration gains traction
[00:05:56] Edtech market braces for consolidation
[00:08:45] Linda McMahon engages at ASU+GSV
[00:10:18] Challenges merging CS and AI in schools
[00:13:16] Harvard pushes back on federal DEI demands signals sector shift
[00:23:21] Yuanfudao launches next-gen AI tutor
[00:28:20] OpenAI releases GPT-4.1 with huge upgrades
[00:30:25] Google and Claude enhance AI tools
[00:33:56] Brisk wins GSV Cup and raises $15M
[00:35:20] Big funding rounds hit across edtech
[00:37:56] Global expansion and tutor startup funding

Plus, special guest:

[00:38:27] Collin Earnst of the Ed-tech Leadership Collective on building edtech leadership

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