Education should empower holistic growth: CEO of Birla Brainiacs foresees EdTech revolution

As the EdTech industry continues to flourish, Muddassar Nazar, CEO of Birla Brainiacs sheds light on the significant trends and technological advancements that are reshaping the future of education. He discusses the role of augmented reality, hybrid learning, micro-learning, and gamification in enhancing learning experiences. Moreover, Nazar addresses the crucial issue of equitable access to educational resources, the integration of AI/ML in education, and the strategies Birla Brainiacs employs to innovate and stay ahead in this competitive market. The interview concludes with his predictions for the future of EdTech and its potential to shape global education paradigms. Excerpts:

As the EdTech industry continues to grow, what significant trends or technological advancements do you see shaping the future of education?

Technology has transformed our lives, communication, and work processes, and it has not started to affect how we learn. Education technology, or EdTech, is a rapidly expanding industry which has grown immensely in recent years. With the COVID-19 pandemic compelling schools to implement remote learning, EdTech has played a crucial role. The future of education technology is full of fascinating trends and technologies that have the potential to change the way we learn. Here are some of the most promising Edtech industry trends to look out for in the next years:

1. Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR) have quickly gained traction in education, providing immersive learning experiences that allow students to explore concepts in an engaging, participatory manner. Medical students, for example, use VR to practice surgical operations, while history students can use AR to explore old ruins. These will play a vital role and will be in high demand as future educational technology trends.

2. Hybrid learning (also known as blended learning) mixes traditional classroom education with online learning to maximise efficiency and personalised teacher training. As more schools investigate ways to incorporate technology into teaching practices, hybrid learning is becoming increasingly common. These trends emphasise the importance of technology in education and what the future of technology in education looks like.

3. Micro-learning and nano-learning are critical when addressing the future of education. Micro-learning and nano-learning give learning experiences that can be completed in a short period of time. They are ideal for busy students who do not have much time to devote to education, and they can even be provided utilising mobile devices so students may access education while on the go.

 4. Increasing Exposure to Digital Life as technology advances, children will have more digital experiences, requiring educators to modify their teaching techniques and incorporate digital literacy skills into the curriculum so that they are appropriately equipped for a world that is increasingly reliant on technology.

5. Gamification: The application of game design principles in non-gaming environments is known as gamification. Gamification makes learning more interesting and enjoyable by incorporating aspects such as badges, points, and leaderboards. This method can help drive kids to learn and increase their information retention.

EdTech has played a vital role in facilitating remote learning during challenging times like the pandemic. How do you see EdTech continuing to impact traditional education models even beyond the pandemic era?

EdTech has played an important role in ensuring continuous education during the pandemic by providing remote learning options. Beyond the pandemic, the impact of traditional education is still relevant thus the era of hybrid has taken share in the market.  As EdTech tailors information to individual needs, personalised learning experiences will flourish, improving understanding and engagement. Collaboration will cross borders, allowing students from all around the world to engage, share ideas, and learn together. Access to online resources will democratise education, closing gaps in underprivileged areas. Furthermore, EdTech has the ability to improve evaluation methodologies by providing real-time feedback and tracking progress. As technology improves, virtual reality and artificial intelligence (AI) will most likely immerse learners in interactive settings and intelligent material delivery. Instructors will take on the role of facilitators, directing students through critical thinking and problem-solving exercises. While preserving the integrity of traditional education, EdTech will empower educators and learners, ushering in a dynamic transition in the educational environment.

Personalized learning has been a key focus in EdTech. How do you ensure that EdTech solutions cater to diverse learning styles and individual student needs effectively?

There has been a rise in schools using a personalised approach to teaching using technology since the pandemic began. Personalised learning seeks to adapt learning to each student's unique set of strengths, skills, and interests. Educators apply a variety of EdTech technologies to support personalised learning because students can customise online learning resources to process information, understand themes, and study at their own speed. With this in mind, I would like to  highlight  various ways in which EdTech supports personalised learning.

Students have the ability to learn at their own pace: Personalised learning in EdTech empowers students to learn at their own pace and level, as this type of functionality promotes flexibility and individuality, resulting in higher engagement and better learning results. EdTech tools allow students to revisit topics several times because virtual learning focuses on the learner's needs rather than what the instructor in front of the class gives. Online learning allows students to set their own pace rather than being dictated by their teacher.

Providing Additional Assistance: Education technology is assisting in the attempt to reduce the gap between students who achieve lower grades and their peers since EdTech solutions cater to their academic and emotional requirements by facilitating programmes that give mentorship and an education-first approach. Respectful Ways, for example, uses trauma-informed curricula to support social-emotional growth.

With the plethora of EdTech tools available, how do you assess the effectiveness and educational value of your products or services?

In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, student engagement has emerged as the linchpin of effective learning. Beyond mere participation, it fosters a genuine passion for knowledge and critical thinking, propelling students towards better academic performance and lifelong success. Educational tools and services play a pivotal role by transforming passive learning into interactive experiences through platforms like learning management systems, personalized content delivery, rich multimedia integration, collaborative features, instant feedback mechanisms, and enhanced accessibility. Educators, with proper training and clear objectives, must actively facilitate these tools, ensuring they enhance the curriculum rather than overshadow it. Looking ahead, the future promises even more engaging possibilities, with immersive technologies like virtual and augmented reality, AI-driven personalization, and global connectivity fostering dynamic, interactive, and personalized learning experiences, empowering students to thrive in an ever-changing world.

The accessibility of education is a critical aspect. How does your EdTech company ensure that its offerings are inclusive and reach learners from diverse backgrounds?

Our company ensure the offerings are inclusive and reach learners from diverse backgrounds through several strategies:

1. Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Using UDL principles to design content, platforms, and tools guarantees that resources are accessible and adaptable to varied learning styles and abilities.

2. Content in a Variety of Formats: Offering content in a variety of formats, such as text, audio, and video, caters to varied learning preferences and needs. Adapting content to multiple languages and cultures also helps to reach a larger audience and make education more relatable.

3. Mobile Accessibility: Ensuring that platforms and content are mobile-friendly can assist in reaching learners who may not have access to traditional PCs. Compatibility with assistive devices, such as screen readers and speech recognition software, increases accessibility for students with impairments.

4. Customization and Personalization: Giving learners the ability to personalise their learning experiences to their specific needs and preferences will boost engagement and inclusion.

Data privacy and security are crucial when dealing with student information. What measures does your EdTech company take to safeguard user data and maintain user trust?

In the modern educational landscape, CRM systems used by Birla Brainaics are indispensable for facilitating effective communication among the institutions, students, and parents while safeguarding sensitive data. Acting as secure information hubs, CRMs employ robust security measures, including role-based access control, data encryption, unique user IDs, firewall and intrusion detection systems, and regular security updates to protect student and parent information from unauthorized access. The systems are not only instrumental in managing relationships but also in ensuring that confidential data remains confidential. To enhance data privacy, Birla Brainiacs CRMs often incorporate features for consent management, data retention policies, and strict compliance with data protection laws such as FERPA and GDPR. By prioritizing these security measures and legal requirements, educational institutions build trust within their communities and foster productive partnerships between all stakeholders.

EdTech has the potential to bridge the digital divide, but disparities in access to technology persist. How does your company address the issue of equitable access to educational resources?

Several strategies are used to address the issue of equitable access to educational resources:

1. Low-Cost Pricing Models: Using tiered pricing or freemium models, educational resources can be made more accessible to a broader range of pupils, including those from lower-income families.

2. Device Agnostic Platforms: Creating platforms that are compatible with a wide range of devices, like smartphones and low-cost tablets, to ensure that students may access content regardless of their hardware.

3. Teacher Training: Providing educators who are unfamiliar with technology with training and assistance so that they may effectively use EdTech tools in their teaching approaches.

4. Inclusive Design: Creating user-friendly interfaces and content for people with disabilities or unique learning requirements. Developing equipment that uses as little data as possible will benefit students in locations with limited data plans.

5. Monitoring and Evaluation: Regularly assessing the impact of EdTech initiatives on bridging the digital divide and making adjustments based on feedback and data.

We play a critical role in minimising gaps in access to educational materials and ensuring that more learners can take leverage from the benefits of digital learning by implementing these tactics.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) has become prevalent in EdTech. How do you leverage AI/ML to enhance learning experiences and support educators?

Birla Brainiacs use AI and machine learning to improve learning experiences and assist educators in a variety of ways:

1. Personalised Learning: Artificial intelligence analyses student performance data to generate personalised learning paths, tailoring material and pace to individual needs, strengths, and shortcomings.

2. Adaptive Assessment: AI-powered tests modify difficulty based on student replies, offering a more accurate grasp of their knowledge and enabling tailored solutions.

3. Data-Driven Insights: AI analyses data to deliver meaningful insights to educators, allowing them to better understand student achievement and areas for development.

4. Virtual Tutors: AI-powered virtual tutors provide students with quick support and direction, answering questions and providing explanations around the clock. AI aids language acquisition by offering contextually relevant vocabulary and grammar suggestions, as well as speech recognition and translation.

5. Content Recommendations: Based on a student's interests and learning style, AI proposes more materials, films, or activities. AI recognises difficult children early, allowing educators to intervene and support them on time. Gamification, which adapts games and activities based on students' success and preferences, improves engagement.

6. Professional Development: AI helps instructors improve their teaching skills by recommending personalised professional development courses and materials.

Overall, AI/ML enables us to design more flexible, engaging, and successful learning environments while assisting educators in providing high-quality training.

The EdTech market is highly competitive. What strategies does your company employ to stay ahead and continuously innovate in this dynamic landscape?

Birla Brainiacs stands as a beacon of innovation in today's evolving educational landscape. While traditional EdTech platforms often limit themselves to standardized curriculum-based learning, Birla Brainiacs pioneers a transformative approach. This educational revolution transcends rote memorization and exam scores, focusing instead on holistic growth. They recognize that education should encompass not only academic knowledge but also the development of essential skills, emotional intelligence, and resilience—vital attributes for success in the next decade and beyond. By integrating mental and soul sciences into their methodology, they empower students with lifelong skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Birla Brainiacs' hybrid learning model combines online and offline experiences, offering students a dynamic environment to apply their knowledge and acquire real-world skills, from coding to leadership. As a visionary leader in education, Birla Brainiacs measures success by the confidence, creativity, and resilience nurtured in their students, not just by grades achieved. Their commitment to fostering adaptable, creative, and resilient individuals positions them at the forefront of transforming education for the next decade, where well-rounded excellence and readiness for an ever-changing world take center stage. In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, Birla Brainiacs represents progress, a dedication to holistic growth, and the infusion of mental and soul sciences, poised to shape the future of learning and prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the next decade and beyond.

Looking ahead, what are your predictions for the future of EdTech, and how do you see it reshaping the educational landscape globally?

Companies must interpret the demands of learners as the industry grows swiftly and navigates abrupt upheavals and technological shocks. As a result, they will be able to develop novel ways to overcome educational gaps and improve learning outcomes. Here are some predictions about EdTech's future and how it will help reshaping the educational landscape globally:

1. Hybrid Education Will Be the New Mainstream: Prior to the pandemic, online learning was merely a choice, if not a privilege. During the epidemic, however, it became a requirement for students and professionals. Hybrid schooling will become the new normal as people increasingly adjust to new technologies.

2. The Year of ChatGPT is 2023: In recent months, ChatGPT has taken the world by storm. Almost every industry is experimenting with ChatGPT to increase efficiency. The same is true for the personalised learning edtech area.

3. Immersive tech and AI will alter the edtech landscape: AI and immersive technology are gradually replacing one-size-fits-all traditional techniques of education with adaptable learning. Immersive technologies such as Metaverse, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) improve simulated learning. This is especially true in science and technology.

4. Technology should assist teachers rather than replace them: With evolving ed-tech trends in 2023, many employees in the education field are concerned about losing their employment to technology in the coming years. That, however, is not the case. When it comes to teaching, technology will only play a supporting role. Teachers will continue to take the lead.

5. Indian Education Will Become Its Own Brand: India is rising as the world's edtech hub, and its robust database structure enables businesses to obtain market insights and grow. In 2021, the Indian edtech market was worth Rs. 280.13 billion. One intriguing point is that non-academic courses are more prevalent in Indian edtech trends 2023, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 locations. Some of the key issues in the Indian education system are a vast population and a lack of access to excellent education. The edtech industry, on the other hand, is bridging the gap by providing cost-effective, high-quality content and improving engagement between professors and students.