IIT Madras Pravartak, SWAYAM Plus launch free AI training programme for rural school teachers

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation, in partnership with the union education ministry’s SWAYAM Plus portal, has launched a free nationwide Artificial Intelligence (AI) training programme for rural school teachers, aimed at strengthening digital and pedagogical capacities in government and rural schools across India.

The last date to register for the course is January 31, and applications can be submitted through the official website of IIT Madras Pravartak, iitmpravartak.org.in

The programme titled ‘AI for Educators – K12 Teachers’ (Classes 1 to 12) certification course, starting February 5, will equip educators with essential skills to integrate artificial intelligence into classroom teaching and learning, the press release said.

It is a 40-hour certification course designed for teachers handling Classes 1 to 12.

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The training is being offered free-of-cost with certification fees waived for the first 500 rural school teachers who successfully complete the programme and assessment,the release added.

IIT AI Course: Focus on classroom integration

The programme “will equip educators with essential skills to integrate AI into classroom teaching and learning,” IIT Madras Pravartak said in the press release.

It added that the course is structured to help teachers adopt AI tools and methodologies to enhance learning outcomes.

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Balamurali Shankar, chief knowledge officer, IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation, said, “AI is rapidly reshaping the future of education. ….. This course will help educators become future-ready and confident in adopting AI responsibly,”

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The course includes an introductory session followed by eight modules covering generative AI tools, prompt engineering, gamification, storytelling, AI-based lesson planning, AR/VR-enabled visualization, AI-supported assessments, subject-specific applications, inclusive education strategies, and online and blended learning platforms, the press release stated.

Teachers will also receive hands-on exposure to AI-powered teaching resources and classroom tools.

As outlined in the press release, assessment will be conducted through an MCQ-based virtual proctored examination administered by IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation. Successful participants will be awarded an official certificate issued by Pravartak.