Dhanraj’s introduction to the education system wasn’t too promising. “I joined the school in grade 1 but barely had interest in studies initially. As I grew up, I built a little more focus and concentration and developed an interest in studying,” he shares with a smirk. “Now, I am so certain with my subjects that I can help clear others’ doubts too.”

An observer who is not afraid to speak his mind, he notices that the girls in his class often do not ask questions or doubts about a topic during class due to hesitance or shyness. But the rest of the class, especially him and his other friends, try to help. 

“There are 39 students in our class out of which 17 are boys and 22 are girls. Girls in our class are very shy, even if they have questions in mind about certain topics, they wouldn’t ask the teacher. Sometimes the boys in our class help the girls in studies and clear their doubts.” 

To him, the act of drawing diagrams on the blackboard feels like an underutilisation of time. They don’t explain things as they are, he feels. “Digital learning has helped bridge that gap. All of us have a better understanding of what is taught in class, especially subjects like science and history. There is deeper learning with visuals on screen, it is easier to remember. We don’t waste time drawing on the board.”

With a smirk on his face and light in his eyes, he concludes, “You know, science diagrams can be very complex to make and comprehend. Imagine understanding the functioning of a kidney, or the digestive system through just a diagram on the board.”