Archive · 5 Sep 2026
IIIT-H Launches Centre to Reinvent Learning in AI Age
IIIT-H is starting a new centre about learning with artificial intelligence.
The centre wants people to use AI as a learning partner, not just as a machine that gives answers.
Its leaders worry that instant summaries and solutions can make learning too shallow.
They support “slow learning,” where people ask questions, experiment, and work through difficult problems.
This approach is meant to build critical thinking, creativity, and resilience.
The centre will work with schools, universities, education companies, and experts.
It will study learning for children, college students, workers, and retirees.
Its goal is to help people keep learning deeply even as machines become smarter.
IIIT-H is launching the Centre for Educational Technology and Learning Sciences on Saturday.
The centre will combine psychology, cognitive science, learning sciences, and technology research.
CETLS wants AI to become an active learning partner rather than merely an answer provider.
It promotes deliberate “slow learning” involving questioning, experimentation, and productive struggle.
The centre will study learning across K-12, higher education, executive education, and retirees.
- Who
- The Centre for Educational Technology and Learning Sciences at the International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad, led by Professors Vasudeva Varma and Praveen Garimella.
- What
- A research-driven centre is being launched to explore how AI can transform learning and support deeper human learning.
- When
- The centre is set to launch on Saturday; no specific date is provided.
- Where
- The International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad, in Hyderabad.
- Why
- To develop learning methods and environments that help people learn deeply and adapt throughout life in an AI-native world.
Frictionless AI Learning
Deep, Deliberate Learning
Role of AI in education
Frictionless AI Learning
AI can provide instant explanations, summaries, and solutions, making learning easier and more efficient.
Deep, Deliberate Learning
CETLS argues that relying too heavily on instant answers may produce shallow learning and wants AI to challenge learners through questioning, experimentation, and productive struggle.
- Centre
- Centre for Educational Technology and Learning Sciences (CETLS)
- Institution
- International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad
- Leaders
- Professors Vasudeva Varma and Praveen Garimella
- Core approach
- Using AI as an active partner in human learning
- Learning model
- “Slow learning” based on questioning, experimentation, and productive struggle
- Focus areas
- K-12 education, higher education, executive education, and third-age learning
- Research model
- A “living laboratory” working with schools, universities, edtech firms, and international experts