Turning the Educational Bus: Our Story

3/29/2024

“..I saw first-hand the tremendous power of the Internet to transform human behavior and unlock new opportunities. I knew then that my mission in life was to leverage this technology for good.”
– Bratati Ghosh, Chairman & CEO at Turn the Bus

The power of digital learning in education forms the central ideology rotating the wheels of Turn the Bus. Over a period 5 years (2018-2023), what initially began as a WhatsApp Group consisting of 1000 students in 2020 is now a community of 300,000+ students enrolled on Turn the Bus app, enabling them to access top-quality learning content using their smartphones.

Turn the Bus is a technology-driven educational nonprofit to address educational disparities, particularly focusing on minimizing income disparities in rural Bihar. Our story started with engaging with JEEViKA “Didis” back in 2018, where they expressed the need for quality education and diversification of livelihood options for their next generation. In collaboration with JEEViKA, that conversation has now evolved into creation of Turn the Bus educational app, which includes:

Over 380 hours of online educational materials created by our exceptional cohort of almost 400+ volunteers
1677 video lectures in Hindi spanning 22 subjects
The subjects are in alignment with the curriculum of grades 10-12 under the Bihar School Examination Board

Further, we recognize the importance of job-ready skills and vocational courses for students and developed our Livelihood Training courses in collaboration with UdayanCare. These contain modules like Solar Enterprise, Entrepreneurship aimed at enhancing the students’ skills and practical knowledge.

As a technology-oriented nonprofit, our core philosophy revolves around leveraging edtech innovations for imparting education. In line with it, we collaborated with a team of students from Carnegie Mellon University to deploy a prototype AR/VR solution for Class 12 Physics lab experiments. Upon completion, this pioneering project will allow students to engage in interactive virtual experiments and visualize theoretical concepts such as Ohm’s Law, electromagnetism, etc.

At the grassroots level, we are very hands-on in interacting with our students and understanding how we can optimize student learning. Our team holds frequent visits to immerse ourselves in the community we serve, gaining valuable insights into their needs and preferences. Our app contains feedback loops and student engagement database, which enables us to keep track of our students’ efficient learning. To further ensure sustainable pedagogy, we are constantly evolving our technology and educational policies.

Our story of turning the educational bus for students in rural Bihar towards improving their career trajectory stands as a testament to the constant dedication of our team, collaborative partners, and our supporters. It encapsulates a tale of weaving a new narrative—one where smartphones are used to disrupt the cycle of poverty and reshape learning for children in rural Bihar. Here are some recounts of our students on how our app has helped them:

“लाभदायक है, मन तो करता है एप्प खोलकर वीडियो देखते रहूँ, जो सब्जेक्ट मुझे पसन्द है, उसके वीडियो देखने में बहुत मजा आता है और उसपे ही ज्यादा फोकस करती हूँ।“
(Translation: The app is very useful. I feel like opening the app and keep watching the videos. I enjoy watching video of the subjects I like and I focus more on those subjects.)

“मुझे बहुत अच्छा लगता है कि घर बैठकर ही पढ़ा ई कर सकते हैं बिना कहीं गए ही ।“
(Translation: I really like the fact that I can study at home without going anywhere.)

5 Comments

Curated Links link

12/30/2024 02:11:16 am

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DRSIS link

1/9/2025 11:07:21 pm

The efforts of Turn the Bus are truly inspiring. Their innovative approach to using technology in education, especially in rural areas like Bihar, is a testament to the power of digital learning. By providing 380+ hours of content and utilizing AR/VR for interactive experiments, they are breaking down educational barriers and empowering students to learn at their own pace and from home. Their dedication to addressing disparities in education through technology is reshaping the future for thousands of students, and it is incredible to see how their work is impacting so many lives.

At DRS International School, we share a similar vision of fostering holistic education that prepares students for future success. Our curriculum is designed not only to nurture academic excellence but also to promote critical thinking, creativity, and leadership. We believe that blending traditional education with modern teaching methods helps our students become well-rounded individuals who are ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow. Learn more about our curriculum and approach on our official website.

Much like Turn the Bus, DRS International School is committed to leveraging technology to enhance education. We incorporate digital tools into our teaching, including virtual classrooms and interactive lessons, to ensure that our students have the best possible learning experience. Our focus on personalized learning paths and innovation in education ensures that every student has the resources they need to excel. We are proud to be part of the growing movement of educational institutions working to break down barriers and create accessible, high-quality learning opportunities for all.

Edifyschool link

1/10/2025 01:26:37 am

What a compelling and inspiring story you’ve shared! It’s refreshing to see how educational institutions are evolving and adapting to the changing needs of students, especially during such challenging times. The way you've highlighted the importance of forward-thinking leadership and the focus on innovation in education truly resonates with the current educational landscape.

The Edify Schools franchise embodies this very approach of innovation and adaptability. With its focus on modernizing education through a unique curriculum, strong leadership, and the integration of technology, Edify is revolutionizing how education is delivered. By adopting both traditional and digital learning models, Edify Schools ensure that students receive a holistic education that prepares them for future challenges.

Just as your blog emphasizes the need for transformative change in education, the Edify franchise plays a pivotal role in reshaping the educational system. It provides a proven platform for educational entrepreneurs to deliver quality education while ensuring accessibility, engagement, and future-ready skills for students. Through the Edify franchise, institutions can accelerate their journey toward educational excellence, aligning with the progressive mindset outlined in your story.

Edify Medchal link

1/10/2025 01:38:14 am

"Your story beautifully captures the essence of how education must evolve to meet the needs of modern students. The focus on innovation and transformation in education is something we can all appreciate, as it ensures that we are not only preparing students for today, but for the challenges of tomorrow.

Edify Medchal is a shining example of this transformation in action. As part of the Edify franchise, Edify Medchal embraces a dynamic curriculum, blending traditional teaching methods with advanced digital tools to create an enriched learning experience. By focusing on student-centric education, fostering creativity, and integrating technology, Edify Medchal is shaping students into well-rounded individuals, ready to face the future with confidence.

Just as your blog emphasizes the importance of innovation in education, Edify Medchal takes this concept further by constantly updating its learning methods and approach, ensuring that each child is given the right tools and opportunities to thrive in a digital-first world."

DRSKIDS link

1/10/2025 01:39:54 am

"Your blog excellently highlights the necessity of adaptability in education, particularly in such uncertain times. The transformation you're discussing is not only needed but urgent for the continued success and well-being of future generations.

DRSKids, as part of the DRS International Schools, perfectly embodies this forward-thinking vision in early childhood education. Focused on fostering creativity, emotional intelligence, and cognitive development in young learners, DRSKIDS incorporates both traditional and modern teaching methods. It provides an environment where children can grow holistically, equipped with the skills needed for both school and life.

In alignment with the message of your blog, DRSKIDS is revolutionizing early childhood education by integrating innovative teaching methods, ensuring that young learners are not only prepared for the present but also future-ready, empowered with the right mindset for tomorrow’s challenges."

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