In today’s rapidly changing educational environment, integrating technology into teaching is no longer an option but an imperative. Effective and sustainable digital transformation in schools calls for adherence to a clear, systematic framework. At Sharebility Uganda, we have coined the 10 Cs EduTech Success Framework, which represents key elements that help deliver continued success in EduTech adoption and integration.
Let’s look at each of these 10 Cs and how they contribute to your school’s EduTech success.
1. Computers (Hardware & Software)
The foundation of EduTech lies in access to the proper tools, both hardware (computers, tablets, and printers) and software, such as office packages and educational apps. Teachers need to have personal devices like smartphones and laptops for daily use. Schools need to make a plan for acquisition of devices for teachers and students use. Schools should also explore School Management Software (SMS), which can handle a range of administrative tasks such as admissions, timetabling, and report card preparation​. Software like ClipChamp and Capcut are recommended for video recording and editing, enabling teachers to create multimedia content for lessons. Additionally, learning management platforms like Google Classroom, WordPress, and Moodle can be used for managing classes​, eLearning and school publicity.
2. Content (Digital Libraries & Local Content)
Technology is only as effective as the educational content it delivers. Schools should have access to high-quality digital libraries and locally relevant educational content that aligns with the curriculum. Use of offline and online digital libraries, such as OERs, Rachel, Kolibri, and Sharebility, allows for diverse and accessible learning materials​. Teachers are encouraged to contribute (create own local content such as edu-videos based on local curriculum) and adapt resources to meet learners’ needs, ensuring that technology doesn’t just supplement learning but enriches it.
3. Connectivity (Internet)
In today’s world, internet connectivity is a necessity for any school intending to embrace EduTech. This provides access to global information and enables the use of cloud-based tools and platforms. Reliable internet connectivity allows for research, and access to resources worldwide. Ensuring affordable, dependable internet is a top priority.
4. Competency (ICT Skills)
EduTech can only be successfully integrated if teachers and students are competent in using technology. Schools need to invest in continuous professional development to enhance ICT skills, covering areas like digital content creation, video editing, internet navigation, and cloud collaboration tools. Training in digital pedagogy, cybersecurity, and safe online behavior should also be provided to both teachers and students​. See Sharebility EduTech Syllabus for a skillset vital for  all teachers and school administrators.
5. Collaboration
Technology facilitates better communication and collaboration among teachers and students, both inside and outside the classroom. Platforms like Google Drive, Microsoft Teams, and other collaborative tools enable shared resources, co-creation, and real-time feedback. Encouraging a collaborative culture among students and staff fosters an innovative learning environment where teachers can share ideas, access lesson plans, and engage in peer-to-peer learning. Collaborative workspaces like Google Docs, Slides, and Sheets make real-time editing and feedback seamless​.
6. Culture (Embedded in Policy)
To genuinely transform education, technology must be ingrained in the school’s culture. This includes leadership embracing technology, supporting policies for its integration, and fostering a shared vision across all institutional levels. A school’s culture should promote consistent use of ICTs, with clear guidelines on how EduTech is woven into teaching, learning, and administration. For example, the school’s Director of Studies can ask teachers to start sending their schemes of work via email to save funds spent on buying workbooks, or encourage them to integrate ICTs in their lesson plans. The School ICT Policy and EdTech Strategic Plan Guide provided by Sharebility Uganda is a valuable resource for setting up a comprehensive school-wide approach to ICT integration, covering areas such as Capacity Development, Data Privacy and Security: Procurement, Maintenance and Repair, BYOD Policy, Online Platforms, Inventory Management, Roles and Responsibilities, and Lab Rules, and staff support plans​.
7. Community for Teachers, Partners and Service Providers
Teachers need continuous support to thrive in a digitally enhanced classroom. Creating a community of teachers through workshops, online forums, or social media groups offers a platform for sharing best practices, solving challenges, and celebrating successes. This community should exist within the school and extend to the wider educational network. Additionally, EdTech Teacher Mentors can play a crucial role in facilitating access to ICT resources and guiding teachers in effective technology use​. In addition to forming teacher networks, it is vital to collaborate with service providers and partners who can provide further resources, training, and support. Organizations like Edify play a crucial role in equipping teachers with the skills and tools they need for effective EdTech integration.
8. Clubs for Students
Student clubs focused on EduTech activities inspire creativity, spark interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and promote self-directed learning. Whether coding clubs, robotics groups, or digital art programs, these clubs offer opportunities for students to explore, create, and innovate beyond the classroom environment. Schools can establish ICT or EduTech clubs that not only enhance tech skills but also integrate ICT into project-based learning, with activities like programming, creating digital content (videos, animations, web design), and other creative pursuits​.
9. Competitions & Exhibitions
Competitions and exhibitions provide motivation for students to apply what they’ve learned. Schools can host tech fairs, coding competitions, and digital exhibitions where students can showcase their projects and innovations. These events encourage healthy competition, creativity, and teamwork, while preparing students for real-world applications. Additionally, annual events like UCC’s NCC, SESEMAT, WordCamps, and other local exhibitions provide platforms for sharing knowledge and skills with a larger audience​.
10. Continuity (Sustainability & Long-Term Planning)
EduTech success is a long-term commitment, not an overnight achievement. Schools should plan for the continuous use of technology by teachers and students, along with a strategy for scaling up over time (and replacing / acquiring new devices periodically). Continuity ensures that EduTech initiatives are not mere one-off projects but grow and evolve with changing technology and educational needs. This includes regular maintenance, ongoing teacher training, content updates, and assessing the impact of technology in classrooms. A School ICT Access Plan, focusing on maintaining a recommended 4:1 student-to-device ratio, helps in sustainable ICT integration and continuous improvement​.
Conclusion
The 10 Cs EduTech Success Framework provides a holistic approach to successfully integrating technology in schools. From providing access to devices to fostering a culture of continuous professional development and collaboration, each component plays a crucial role. By focusing on these key areas, schools can create an environment where technology enhances learning, engages students, and prepares them for the digital future.
With this framework, we believe your school can take significant steps in embracing EduTech to improve teaching outcomes and equip students with the skills they need to thrive in the modern world.