Episode 42 | Diana Knodel on Transforming Education in Germany & Enhancing Teacher Skills with Tech

Summary
In this episode of the Business of Education, Kyle Wallgren speaks with Diana Knodel, founder of Fobizz, a leading platform in Germany for enhancing teachers' digital skills. They discuss the evolution of Fobizz, the importance of understanding teacher needs, the impact of COVID-19 on education, and the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in schools. Diana shares insights on marketing through word of mouth, the significance of coding for children, and the role of networking for entrepreneurs. The conversation highlights the ongoing efforts to empower educators and students in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
Takeaways
Diana Knodel has been in EdTech for over 10 years.
Fobizz started as a professional development platform for teachers.
Feedback from teachers is crucial for product development.
COVID-19 significantly increased the adoption of digital tools in education.
Word of mouth is the primary marketing strategy for Fobizz.
AI adoption in German schools is growing, but challenges remain.
Data privacy concerns are a major barrier to AI implementation.
Teachers are looking for tools that save them time.
Networking is essential for entrepreneurs to share ideas and find support.
Coding is a valuable skill that fosters creativity and problem-solving in children.
Sound Bites
"We want to build a product that really helps teachers."
"We just recently hit half a million teachers."
"90% word of mouth is how we grow."
Chapters
00:15 Introduction to Diana Knodel and Fobizz
01:22 The Evolution of Fobizz and Its Impact
03:27 Understanding Teacher Needs Through Feedback
05:01 Growth During and After COVID-19
08:55 AI Adoption in German Schools
11:27 Comparing AI Adoption: Germany vs. the US
13:57 Challenges of Implementing AI in Education
16:26 Prioritizing Teacher Time in Product Development
19:23 Standing Out in a Crowded EdTech Market
20:40 The Importance of Coding for Children
23:22 AppCamps: Empowering Young Girls in Tech
26:03 The Role of Networking for Entrepreneurs
About Diana
Diana Knodel, founder of EdTech startups fobizz and App Camps, is a leader in integrating AI and digital tools into education. With expertise in computer science, psychology, and educational research, she has significantly enhanced teaching and learning. fobizz, Germany's largest platform for teacher professional development, and App Camps aim to support educators in their digital transformation.
Before founding her companies, Diana worked as a research assistant, product manager, and visiting professor. She is also the author of coding books for children. Diana’s work has earned her several honors, including the Hamburg Senate’s Honorary Award and Business Insider's recognition as one of the top 25 women shaping Germany’s digital future.
Connect with Diana
LinkedIn: @dianaknodel
Instagram: @dianakno
X: @DianaKnodel