What is the difference between Minecraft: Java Edition and Educational Edition?

Minecraft Education Edition is focused on classroom use, so that students can learn while playing, with special blocks and commands, chat/conversation systems, classroom mode and more. It's more similar to the Bedrock Edition rather than Java Edition. Mods aren't available at Minecraft Education Edition, as said here.

On the other hand, Minecraft Java/Bedrock are games without direct educational purposes.

So, there are differences in both modes. As you can use it without any cost, I suggest you give it a try.

The best way to understand something is to do it. :3