Gone are the days when learning Mathematics meant staring at a chalkboard, memorizing formulas, and dreading the eventual pop quiz. Today, the landscape of education is undergoing a massive transformation. With the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023 leading the charge, the focus has drastically shifted from rote memorization to Experiential, Competency-based Learning.
But how do we practically implement this in Class IX and X classrooms? The answer lies in the strategic blend of AI-enabled pedagogy, immersive digital tools like Virtual OLabs, and Smart Assessment platforms like Extra marks, which are meticulously used in classes at Birla Balika Vidyapeeth.
Let’s understand the Innovative Best Practices that are turning Math Anxiety into Math Mastery at Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, Pilani.
The New Era of AI-Enabled Pedagogy
Artificial Intelligence in the classroom isn’t about giving students a quick way to cheat on their homework. Instead, the BBVP teachers are adopting a “Human-in-the-Loop” approach, using AI to foster deeper Critical Thinking.
Dual-Track Digital Learning: Virtual OLabs & Extramarks
To bring the NEP 2020 vision to life, BBVP is pairing exploratory simulation tools with precise, AI-driven assessment platforms.
1. Virtual OLabs: The Digital Math Laboratory
Who says labs are only for Sciences? Virtual OLabs shifts Maths into a dynamic, interactive space. Students can dynamically manipulate variables—like changing the values y see how it impacts the relationship. This kinesthetic approach allows students to visualize abstract theorems like the Pythagorean Theorem, turning dry proofs into interactive puzzles.
2. Extramarks: The AI Co-Pilot for Assessment
While OLabs handles the discovery phase, Extramarks automates the “Diagnose, Learn, Practice, Test, and Evaluate” cycle. Its adaptive testing feature adjusts question difficulty in real-time. If a Class X student aces a standard Quadratic Equation, the system immediately challenges them with an application-based word problem. Furthermore, AI doubt-solving bots act as a 24/7 co-pilot, breaking down the logic of complex problems step-by-step during vacation study sessions.
3. NEP & NCF-Aligned Activities for Classes IX & X
To move away from traditional textbook solving, here are few experiential activities students at BBVP implement in their classroom:
1. The “Data Scientist” Community Audit
Instead of calculating the mean and median of arbitrary numbers, have students audit a real local issue—like the school’s weekly paper/food waste. They collect raw data, use spreadsheet tools to build histograms, bar charts and pie charts and present data-backed recommendations to the school.
Skill learnt: Data Literacy & Civic Awareness.
2. Geometric Architecture & Art Integration
Connecting Maths to Indology and art, students use hands-on activities by paper-cutting & paper folding activities in verification of Algebraic Identities, finding Surface Area & Volumes, verifying Arithmetic Progression and finding its sum etc. They also analyse the various shapes in Monuments.
Skill learnt: Multidisciplinary Thinking.
3. Relating Number System with Values “Life-Sim”
Students at BBVP learn to relate the properties of Number System with life skills, values and human attitudes and have them understand in their family, friends, and neighbors.
Skill learnt: Adjustment & Life Skills.
4. Toy-Based Pedagogy: The Clinometer
Embracing the NCF’s push for toy-based learning, students build their own clinometers using a protractor, chart paper, a straw, and a string. They then head outdoors to measure the heights of trees or the school building using the angle of elevation and the tangent ratio
Skill Unlocked: Experiential Learning.
The Evolving Role of the Teacher
The ultimate takeaway from these innovations is that the teacher’s role has not been replaced—it has been elevated. Educators at Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, Pilani are no longer just dispensers of Information; they are facilitators of Inquiry, Guiding students through the beautiful, logical landscapes of Mathematics.
Mrs. Savitri Dhayal
HOD Mathematics
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