Access to distance learning should not depend on having access to the latest technologies or a stable internet connection. That's why I created EstudIA: a learning management system (LMS) that works entirely via SMS and MMS. Powered by Cerebras' fast inference system, Twilio, LangChain, and Redis, EstudIA provides an alternative for distance learning in communities where internet access is scarce or non-existent.
How EstudIA Works
At its core, EstudIA transforms SMS-enabled phones into tools for education. Here’s how it functions:
Creating a Class:
Teachers text EstudIA with a subject name and an initial topic to generate study materials and exams using Cerebras-powered AI. A unique class code is created and shared with students.
Joining a Class:
Students enroll by texting the class code. EstudIA then sends them the first reading material via SMS.
Learning and Interaction:
Students receive bite-sized lessons and quizzes. They respond with answers via SMS, and Cerebras provides immediate feedback.
Teachers can dynamically update the class topic or materials, ensuring lessons stay relevant.
Assessment and Feedback:
AI-generated exams test students’ understanding, and grades are sent back via text, making the process seamless and interactive
The Tech Stack
Building EstudIA involved integrating powerful yet accessible tools:
Twilio: Handles SMS/MMS communication, enabling reliable two-way interactions between students and teachers.
Cerebras + LangChain: Generates study materials and exams tailored to each topic, ensuring quality content.
Redis: Manages real-time data, tracking student progress and caching frequently accessed content for fast responses. I also used Redis because I appreciated learning something new, and it was very easy to use, which is always nice.
Thank you Cerebras!
Cerebras has been an incredible enabler for this project. This PoC has been created with their fast inference system as the core for the study material generation. It's been truly awesome and seamless to implement their technologies during EstudIA's initial development stage.