Dr. George Panicker, Founder and CEO of International STEAM Research, has been pioneering the implementation of AI-powered STEAM experiential learning in Indian schools. We discuss the journey so far, the challenges, and the future of this transformative approach to education, particularly in light of the National Education Policy 2020.
- Q: Dr. Panicker, International STEAM Research has been working to bring cutting-edge STEAM education to India. Can you briefly describe the genesis of your vision and what motivated you to focus on this area?
A: Our vision stemmed from a deep concern about the traditional, rote-learning based education system. We believed students needed a more engaging, hands-on approach that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. STEAM education, integrated with AI, offered the perfect platform. The NEP 2020 further solidified this vision, emphasizing experiential learning and the integration of technology. - Q: You’ve emphasized the importance of “holistic” STEAM education. What does this mean in practice, and how does it differ from traditional STEM approaches?
A: Holistic STEAM goes beyond the technical aspects. It integrates the Arts and emphasizes interdisciplinary connections, fostering creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. It’s about nurturing well-rounded individuals. Traditional STEM often focuses on siloed subjects, neglecting the crucial role of creativity and human-centered design. It aligns perfectly with the NEP’s focus on holistic development. - Q: Implementing AI-powered learning in schools can be complex. What have been some of the key challenges you’ve faced in introducing this technology, particularly in the Indian context?
A: Several challenges exist. Infrastructure can be a constraint. Teacher training is crucial. Affordability is a major factor. Overcoming initial resistance to new technologies and pedagogical approaches requires patience. However, the NEP’s emphasis on technology integration provides a strong impetus for change. Another major challenge is finding trained facilitators – a gap ISR addresses directly. - Q: You mentioned affordability. How has International STEAM Research addressed the cost factor to make your programs accessible?
A: We’ve adopted a multi-pronged approach. We’ve developed modular hands-on activities that can be scaled and customized. We prioritize using multiple kits of our own, which are designed and continuously upgraded based on the need. Our entire intervention is based on the 3 pillars of sustainability, which are Social, Economic and Ecology. We are proud to state that our offering is the most economic and affordable in the world, which means experiential learning with futuristic technologies is accessible to all economic strata of society. This is crucial for widespread adoption of the NEP’s vision. - Q: Can you give us a specific example of how AI is integrated into your STEAM learning programs and what benefits it brings to students?
A: We use AI-powered platforms for personalized learning. AI can identify specific areas of difficulty and provide targeted support. This fosters deeper understanding and engagement, essential for the experiential learning envisioned by the NEP. As Elon Musk says, using AI for learning is like having Einstein as your personal teacher. - Q: How do you measure the impact of your programs on student learning outcomes?
A: We employ a combination of quantitative and qualitative assessment methods based on the ISR Learning and Outcome frameworks. Student performance are tracked on a daily basis by trained ISR STEAM facilitators, but more importantly, we focus on measuring the development of 21st-century skills. We also look at student projects and portfolios. - Q: Teacher training is critical. What about facilitator training? Schools often struggle to find qualified individuals in this evolving field. How does ISR address this?
A: You’re absolutely right. Finding and retaining qualified facilitators is a huge challenge. ISR plays a vital role here. We have a large pool of facilitators who are regularly trained by ISR professionals and participate in dynamic, hands-on activities to stay updated with the latest knowledge. Every school implementing ISR’s AI-Powered STEAM Experiential Learning is provided with ISR-trained facilitators. This ensures students are guided correctly and consistently. However, ISR uses the Heutagogical methodology which means it is student centric and not teacher centric, where students are encouraged to have a scientific temperament helping them to eliminate the fear of failure. We empower schools to offer high-quality experiential learning without having to be dependent on just a couple of expert teachers. - Q: What are some of the future plans for International STEAM Research in India?
A: We plan to expand our reach. Our Research and Development department is continuously developing new AI-powered learning modules and exploring emerging technologies. We are also working on developing more localized content and aligning our programs with the Indian context. We are constantly striving to be a key enabler of the NEP’s vision for futuristic technology based experiential learning within the classroom, affordable to all. - Q: What advice would you give to educators and policymakers who are interested in promoting STEAM education and integrating AI into the classroom?
A: Start small, but start now. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Focus on teacher and facilitator training. Collaborate with the right experts in this specialized field. And most importantly, keep the student at the center. Don’t just focus on just setting up a Robotics Labs. Embrace a holistic approach to experiential learning as advocated by the NEP, incorporating all futuristic technologies. - Q: Finally, Dr. Panicker, what is your long-term vision for the impact of International STEAM Research on the Indian education landscape?
A: My vision is to holistically empower Indian students irrespective of their economic status. I believe that ISR’s AI-powered STEAM education has the potential to revolutionize learning, fostering a generation of innovators. International STEAM Research is uniquely positioned to help schools implement the holistic, experiential learning envisioned by the NEP, going beyond just Robotics Labs to encompass the full spectrum of future-ready skills. We are the best STEAM Experiential Learning company equipped and qualified to do so on a large scale for schools, providing not just the technology but also the crucial human element – a large pool of trained facilitators.
