Part 16 of 29 in Helping Your Children Learn: What Parents Need to Know← Part 15Part 17 →
I’ve been thinking a lot about how we use technology in education, particularly with AI tools that seem to promise a revolution in learning. We often assume that simply providing access to the latest tech will magically solve the challenges our education system faces. But as with any tool, the value of AI in education depends entirely on how we use it. This is where Eklavya comes in as a refreshing alternative, not just another tuition app.
Eklavya, found at eklavya.io, is a free AI tutor designed specifically for Indian students studying for exams like JEE, NEET, CBSE, and state boards. It’s an initiative I’m involved with, so consider this not a neutral review but an account from someone with a vested interest. What sets Eklavya apart is its commitment to remain free forever, without ads or hidden fees. But most importantly, it’s about the philosophy behind it — a philosophy inspired by Holt’s vision of learning environments where children are not turned into performers but are encouraged to ask real questions.
In our country, many families spend lakhs on coaching classes, hoping to give their children the best chance at success. Yet, students in these settings often hesitate to ask questions, fearing they’ll be judged by their peers or even the tutors. Eklavya offers a different approach — it’s a companion that allows students to explore their doubts without embarrassment, at their own pace.
It’s crucial that parents understand how to use Eklavya effectively. This isn’t just another app to assign as homework. The goal is not to replicate the same rigid, syllabus-focused learning that traditional tuitions offer. Instead, when your child is stuck on a problem, open Eklavya together. Encourage her to type out her questions in her own words. If the app doesn’t understand, then and only then, help her rephrase. This teaches her that it’s okay to ask for clarification and that learning is a process, not a performance.
One of the beautiful aspects of Eklavya is that it can explain concepts in multiple ways. If your child doesn’t understand a concept the first time, ask the app to explain it again, perhaps in simpler terms or even as a story. This repetition is key to understanding, and it removes the stigma of having to ask twice — something too many students shy away from in traditional settings.
For older students preparing for exams like JEE or NEET, Eklavya serves as a nighttime confidante for their doubts, a place where they can seek clarity without the pressures of class. While coaching classes might still play a role, they shouldn’t be the only avenue for learning. Mock tests available on the platform are tools for exam preparation, not substitutes for a well-rounded childhood. Encourage your child to apply what they’ve learned outside of the app, whether by explaining it to someone else or integrating it into everyday activities.
However, let’s be clear about what Eklavya cannot do. It won’t replace the human aspects of learning — the empathy, the understanding of a student’s personal struggles, the protection of their free time. These are roles that technology cannot fulfill. As a parent, you must remain engaged, ensuring that your child’s learning is accompanied by real-world applications and emotional support. A fantastic explanation of a concept is still just an explanation. The real learning happens when the child uses that knowledge in a meaningful way.
Let’s face it — the traditional Indian education system often leaves little room for curiosity, creativity, or critical thinking. It’s focused on marks and ranks, often at the expense of genuine understanding. But by integrating tools like Eklavya into our children’s learning, we can start to shift the focus back to these core values. This is not just about preparing for exams, but about fostering lifelong learners who are not afraid to ask questions and seek out knowledge.
If there’s one question I want to leave you with, it’s this: What doubt has been waiting in your house because nobody had the patience for a second explanation? Eklavya might be the tool that helps answer it. But remember, it’s just that — a tool. The real work, the real transformation, happens with you and your child, together.
For those interested in exploring more about how education can be reimagined, I recommend checking out some of my other posts like Respect, Not the Cram and Free Time Is the Curriculum. These pieces delve deeper into the principles of learning that respect the child’s agency and creativity, which tools like Eklavya aim to support.