Technology at IIT Delhi Isn’t Replacing Classrooms, It’s Strengthening Them
Insights from S.B. Paul, Head of Educational Technology
The digital era has prompted universities worldwide to rethink how learning occurs, and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has emerged as a leader in this transformation. Rather than allowing technology to overshadow human teaching, IIT Delhi has embraced it to enrich classrooms, expand access, and rethink pedagogy itself. In an interview with S.B. Paul, the Head of Educational Technology at IIT Delhi, we gain insight into how the institute is navigating the rapid rise of online platforms, AI tools, data-driven learning systems, and secure digital infrastructure.
Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Learning
As the pandemic accelerated digital adoption, IIT Delhi was already prepared to leverage technology for teaching and learning. S.B. Paul explains, “Even before the pandemic, many of our faculty members were using digital platforms for teaching and collaboration. So when the pandemic began, the transition was smooth.”
The main challenge was not the technology itself, but rather how to teach and learn effectively in a fully digital environment. “We had to rethink how learning happens when the classroom is virtual,” Paul notes. While some faculty members were initially cautious, many viewed the shift as an opportunity for innovation.
Training and Adaptation
To facilitate this transition, IIT Delhi conducted numerous training sessions focused on online classes, lecture recording, video editing, and digital evaluation. This proactive approach helped faculty and students adapt quickly to the new learning environment. “The real learning came when we started experimenting with pedagogy: how to keep students engaged and motivated in class,” Paul adds.
Embracing AI in Education
Post-pandemic, the rise of AI-based tools has further transformed the educational landscape. While there are concerns about potential misuse, Paul emphasizes the importance of viewing these changes as opportunities to enhance education. “We see this as a chance to rethink education, not resist it,” he explains. A committee has been established to study the implications of AI in education and to refine the institute’s approach based on feedback from faculty and students.
The goal is not to ban AI tools but to teach students how to think critically and use them responsibly. Moreover, IIT Delhi is committed to ensuring equal access to technology for all students, regardless of financial constraints.
Key Initiatives in Educational Technology
The Educational Technology Division at IIT Delhi has launched several key initiatives that are making a tangible impact on both students and faculty. One of the primary focuses is the design and development of instructional resources. This includes creating video-based and web-based learning materials that support both classroom and online teaching.
Additionally, the division has adopted a range of digital tools to enhance the academic experience. Faculty and students utilize platforms such as:
- Grammarly: For writing assistance
- Turnitin: For plagiarism checking
- Moodle: For course management
Access to e-resources through the library and reference management systems has also become routine, fostering a rich digital environment across campus communities.
Course Management Innovations
Another significant initiative is the course template creation and approval platform. Every ten years, IIT Delhi reviews its curriculum, and this process is now managed digitally. Proposed courses undergo moderation within their parent departments, receiving feedback from other academic units, the Board of Academic Programs, and the Senate. This platform tracks approvals at each stage and serves as a central repository for all courses.
Students can easily access their programs, semester-wise schedules, and detailed course information in one place. An integrated AI tool analyzes course descriptions to detect overlapping courses, helping to reduce redundancy and ensure that every course adds unique value to the curriculum.
Future Directions
Looking ahead, IIT Delhi is developing AI-based transcription and translation of lectures into Indian languages, aiming to make content more inclusive and accessible. Other divisions within the institute are also taking commendable initiatives, such as:
- Digital platforms for research processes under the Central Research Facility (CRF)
- Cloud-based computing through Baadal, managed by the Computer Services Center
- A Hybrid High-Performance Computing Facility for large-scale research computations
Moreover, many administrative workflows, both academic and non-academic, have transitioned online, streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency.
Conclusion
In summary, IIT Delhi’s approach to integrating technology into education exemplifies a thoughtful balance between innovation and traditional teaching methods. By embracing digital tools and fostering an environment of continuous learning, the institute is not only enhancing the educational experience but also preparing students for a future where technology and education are inseparable.
Note: The insights shared in this article are based on an interview with S.B. Paul, Head of Educational Technology at IIT Delhi, and reflect the current trends and initiatives within the institute as of November 2025.
