Platform capitalism, corporations and philanthropy in Nueva Escuela Mexicana online

Abstract

One effect of the pandemic on education systems globally has been the increased use of digital technology to maintain the continuity of educational activities, now at a distance. Crucial in this process has been the expansion of digital corporations GAFAM (Google, Amazon, Facebook, Apple and Microsoft) in the educational field by providing software and hardware to schools, students, teachers and families. The intervention of these companies has been facilitated by agreements and coalitions with public and third sector actors, which have made it possible for the private sector to play a major role in the incorporation of digital technology in the education sector. Thanks to these agreements, Google has managed to position itself as a key player in the Global Education Industry (GIE) by expanding the number of users on its platforms and generating strategic alliances with governments. This article analyzes the relationship between the Nueva Escuela Mexicana (NEM) and Google for Education in light of the international experience of corporate expansion in education. It also discusses the gradual advance of the corporation in national education, as well as its direct intervention in public education in light of the school closures resulting from the pandemic. It also considers the importance of other global corporations and philanthropic organizations in the consolidation of a series of educational proposals that seek to promote the use of digital platforms and an EdTech culture in the national education system.