In a recent demonstration of the potential of AI in education, Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy, and his son used OpenAI’s GPT-4o to solve a geometry problem. This practical application of AI showcases how tools like GPT-4o and Google’s Gemini Live can provide step-by-step guidance, making math more accessible and less intimidating for students. With AI’s capability to offer personalized, interactive and engaging instruction, there’s a promising path to addressing the widespread math phobia among students in India.
According to a survey conducted by Cuemath, 82% of students from classes 7 to 10 in India experience significant anxiety towards mathematics, with only 10% expressing confidence in their abilities. This anxiety worsens as students progress through school, with negative perceptions of math increasing from one in seven students in class 7 to one in four by class 10. Additionally, proficiency in basic math declines from nearly 60% in class 7 to just 33% in class 8, highlighting an urgent need for innovative solutions. I believe AI tools when developed fully in a period of few years can somehow solve this issue.
Innovative learning approaches
Dr. Priya Patel, in her article “Transforming Math Education in India: Innovative Approaches,” discusses the potential of project-based and game-based learning to alleviate math phobia. These methods make learning interactive and enjoyable, encouraging students to engage with mathematical concepts practically and hands-on. AI-driven platforms can seamlessly incorporate these methodologies. For example, in recently introduced GPT-4o, it was demonstrated how it can guide students through project-based learning activities, offering step-by-step assistance and contextual explanations. These tools can explain a single mathematical question in a number of ways. Thus a student can choose an explanation that fits his background in Mathematics. Game-based learning modules, powered by AI, can transform mathematical problem-solving into an exciting and rewarding experience, shifting students’ perceptions of math from daunting to enjoyable.
Bridging the mathematics education gap
Research by S. Maikandan et al. titled “Math Phobia among School Students: A Comparative Design” shows that math anxiety is higher in government schools than in private schools. This gap is often due to the lower quality of resources and education in government schools, where many students come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Supercharged AI assistants like GPT-4o and Google’s Gemini Live might offer a cost-effective solution to bridge this educational gap as GPT-4o is free. However, the free version as of now has a limited capacity. However, those who have OpenAI’s paid plan can access at $20 (approximately Rs. 1650) per month but they will have 5 times more capacity on GPT-4o. Similarly, Gemini Live will be free for first two months and thereafter, people will be charged $20 per month. By providing high-quality, personalized learning experiences accessible to anyone with an internet connection, AI can democratize Mathematics education, ensuring that students from lower-income families receive the same level of support as their more affluent peers.
Reducing the gender gap in Mathematics
Research indicates a persistent gender gap in mathematical performance, with boys outperforming girls across all classes. Factors such as societal expectations and a lack of confidence among female students contribute to this disparity. Alauddin Dafadar, in hi research titled, “A Survey of Mathematics Anxiety and Mathematical Resilience in Upper Primary School Level” published in the journal, “Bhatter College Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies,” highlights that the lack of clear explanations in textbooks, weak teaching methods, and insufficient foundational knowledge exacerbate math anxiety.
AI supercharged assistants can help bridge this gap by offering tailored explanations and adaptive learning paths that cater to individual learning styles. These tools show a potential to provide real-time feedback and support, enabling students to grasp fundamental concepts more effectively. By offering a non-judgmental and supportive learning environment, AI can empower female students to build confidence in their mathematical abilities.
Combating weak teaching methods
Weak teaching methods and fragile foundational knowledge significantly contribute to math anxiety, as identified by Alauddin Dafadar. AI tools can supplement traditional teaching by providing consistent and high-quality instructional support. These can serve as a virtual tutor offering 24×7 service, offering personalized attention that might not be feasible in a crowded classroom. This AI can identify areas where students struggle and provide targeted practice and explanations, ensuring that foundational gaps are promptly addressed.
Conclusion
The integration of AI tools like GPT-4o and Google’s Gemini Live into the educational landscape holds immense potential to revolutionize math education in India. By offering personalized, engaging, and supportive learning experiences, these tools can help overcome the pervasive math phobia among students. They can also play a crucial role in bridging the gender and economic gaps, ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to develop confidence and proficiency in mathematics. As we move towards a more technologically integrated educational system, embracing AI could be the key to transforming math education and alleviating the anxiety that so many Indian students face.
The writer can be reached at [email protected]

Umair Ali