Author – Ritesh Ranjan: Mathematics is often viewed as a subject involving formulas, calculations and fixed methods. However, IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation is working to change this perception through its free Out of the Box Thinking through Mathematics course, popularly known as the OOBT Mathematics Course.
Registrations have opened for the latest batch of this online learning programme, which aims to develop creativity, logical reasoning, analytical ability and innovative problem-solving skills. The initiative is open to learners across India, including school students, college students, teachers, working professionals, parents and lifelong learners.
The upcoming batch is scheduled to begin on 7 August 2026, while the last date to submit applications is 6 August 2026. Interested candidates can register through the official IITM Pravartak OOBT portal.
What Is the IITM Pravartak OOBT Mathematics Course?
The Out of the Box Thinking through Mathematics course is an educational initiative designed to help learners approach problems from different perspectives. Instead of focusing only on conventional classroom methods, the course encourages participants to identify patterns, question assumptions and discover creative solutions.
The programme uses mathematics as a tool for improving thinking skills rather than treating it merely as a subject of numbers and calculations. Learners are introduced to problems that require observation, reasoning, imagination and experimentation.
This approach can help participants become more confident while dealing with unfamiliar situations. The skills developed through the course may also be useful in academics, competitive examinations, professional decision-making and everyday life.
Course Designed by an Experienced Mathematics Educator
The programme has been designed and conducted by Mr. Sadagopan Rajesh, Mathematics Educator and Founder-Director of the Aryabhatta Institute of Mathematical Sciences.
His teaching approach presents mathematics as a way to understand patterns, relationships and logical structures. Learners are encouraged to explore multiple methods rather than depend on a single memorised formula.
By presenting mathematics through puzzles, observations and unconventional problems, the course aims to make the subject engaging and relevant. This method can be particularly useful for students who want to improve their analytical ability but may not enjoy traditional textbook-based learning.
Free Online Learning for Participants Across India
One of the most important features of the IITM Pravartak OOBT course is that it is offered online and free of cost.
The online format allows learners from different parts of India to participate without travelling to a physical classroom. It can especially benefit students and teachers from rural areas or underserved communities where access to advanced mathematics enrichment programmes may be limited.
Participants can learn from their homes and follow the course structure according to the programme schedule. The free-access model also removes financial barriers, making the initiative available to a wider group of learners.
While participation in the online course is free, learners who choose to appear for the optional proctored certification examination will have to pay a nominal examination fee.
Four Progressive Levels of Learning
The OOBT Mathematics Course is divided into four progressive levels. Each level lasts for approximately 10 weeks and includes periodic assignments.
The assignments are accompanied by guided solutions, helping learners understand not only the correct answer but also the reasoning behind it. This structure enables participants to gradually strengthen their confidence and problem-solving ability.
Learners may begin with relatively simple ideas before moving towards more challenging concepts. The progressive format ensures that participants develop a strong foundation before attempting advanced problems.
The four-level structure also makes the programme suitable for learners with different educational backgrounds. Participants can improve step by step instead of being exposed to complex problems without adequate preparation.
Why Out-of-the-Box Thinking Matters
Out-of-the-box thinking refers to the ability to look beyond obvious or standard solutions. It involves examining a problem from different angles, challenging common assumptions and experimenting with alternative approaches.
According to Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, out-of-the-box thinking in mathematics is important for solving real-world problems through innovative methods. Mathematical creativity allows learners to move beyond standard formulas and discover original solutions.
This type of thinking also strengthens critical reasoning. Learners become more comfortable asking questions such as:
- Is there another way to solve this problem?
- What assumptions are being made?
- Can the problem be simplified?
- Is there a hidden pattern?
- Can ideas from another area be applied here?
Such questions are useful not only in mathematics but also in science, technology, engineering, research, business and entrepreneurship.
In a rapidly changing world, students need more than the ability to memorise information. They must be able to analyse unfamiliar situations, adapt to new challenges and develop practical solutions. The OOBT programme is designed to support this mindset.
Optional IITM Pravartak Grade Certificate
Learners who complete the course will also have the option to take an in-person proctored examination at selected centres across India.
A nominal fee will be charged for the examination. Participants who perform well will receive a Grade Certificate from IIT Madras Pravartak.
The certificate may be useful for students, educators and professionals who want to demonstrate their interest and achievement in mathematical reasoning and creative problem-solving. It may also add value to academic portfolios and professional profiles.
Details regarding the examination schedule, registration process and test centres will be announced separately by IITM Pravartak.
Opportunities for Schools and Teachers
IITM Pravartak is also encouraging schools to support the programme by nominating teachers as School Coordinators or SPOCs.
A School Coordinator serves as the main point of contact between the educational institution and the OOBT programme. Coordinators may assist with student registrations, programme communication, participation tracking and course-related support.
Teachers interested in becoming coordinators can register with approval from their school principal, headmaster or headmistress.
IITM Pravartak has partnered with BodhBridge Education to strengthen school outreach and encourage participation. Schools that actively support the initiative may also receive recognition for helping expand access to creative mathematics education.
This partnership model can help introduce large groups of students to mathematical thinking beyond the regular curriculum.
Who Should Apply for the OOBT Mathematics Course?
The course is open to a broad audience and may be particularly valuable for:
- School students interested in mathematics, science and logical puzzles
- College students preparing for technical or research-oriented careers
- Teachers looking for innovative classroom methods
- Working professionals seeking stronger analytical skills
- Parents who want to explore mathematics with their children
- Competitive examination aspirants
- Lifelong learners interested in problem-solving
Participants do not necessarily need to be mathematics experts. Curiosity, consistency and a willingness to explore new approaches are likely to be more important than advanced subject knowledge.
Important Dates and Course Details
Course name: Out of the Box Thinking through Mathematics
Conducting organisation: IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation
Course mode: Online
Course fee: Free
Course structure: Four levels of 10 weeks each
Batch start date: 7 August 2026
Application deadline: 6 August 2026
Certification: Optional proctored examination with a nominal fee
Eligibility: School students, college students, educators, professionals, parents and lifelong learners across India
By combining free online access, structured learning, guided assignments and an optional certification examination, the initiative provides a practical platform for developing skills that extend beyond the classroom.
For students planning careers in science, engineering, technology, research or entrepreneurship, the ability to identify patterns and solve problems creatively can provide a major advantage. Teachers can also use the ideas from the course to make mathematics more interactive and engaging for their students.
Learners interested in joining the upcoming batch should complete their registration through the official IITM Pravartak OOBT portal before 6 August 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the IITM Pravartak OOBT Mathematics Course free?
Yes. Participation in the online OOBT Mathematics Course is completely free. However, learners who choose to appear for the optional in-person proctored examination will have to pay a nominal examination fee.
2. Who can apply for the OOBT Mathematics Course?
The course is open to school students, college students, teachers, working professionals, parents and lifelong learners from across India.
3. When will the next OOBT Mathematics Course batch begin?
The upcoming batch is scheduled to begin on 7 August 2026. The last date to submit the application is 6 August 2026.
4. Will participants receive a certificate after completing the course?
Learners can choose to appear for an optional proctored examination. Candidates who perform well in the examination will receive a Grade Certificate from IIT Madras Pravartak.
5. How is the OOBT Mathematics Course structured?
The programme consists of four progressive levels. Each level runs for approximately 10 weeks and includes periodic assignments with guided solutions.
