Sue Khim: AI Tutors Must Enhance Learning, Not Replace Teachers
In brief
- Koji, Brilliant's AI tutor, uses Socratic Method to help students think through problems
- Problem-solving skills are highly transferable and more valuable than formula memorization
- Student debt must be eliminated entirely, not just made more affordable
- Parents prioritize essential skills like reading and math in schools
- AI that challenges critical thinking resonates with consumers and parents
The AI tutor difference
Khim's vision for AI in education hinges on a critical distinction: AI that challenges users to think is popular among consumers, especially parents. She stated that people aren't inherently opposed to artificial intelligence; they reject poorly designed AI that lacks real value. Koji's design reflects this philosophy, guiding students through problem-solving rather than simply delivering answers.
The gap between what schools teach and what learners need sits at the heart of Brilliant's mission. School math focuses on learning formulas and procedures, Khim noted. Brilliant teaches problem-solving instead—a skill she calls highly transferable across disciplines and careers. This emphasis on deeper thinking resonates with parents who worry their children aren't mastering essential fundamentals like reading and math.
Student debt: the root cause
Beyond education technology, Khim has long tackled systemic barriers to learning. She previously founded Alltuition, a startup aimed at simplifying college financial aid. But her view on the debt crisis has hardened: the problem isn't the price tag alone. "Student debt needs to disappear and helping people find cheaper rates won't solve the problem," Khim said. The issue lies in the existence of student debt itself, not just its symptoms.
This stance reflects her belief that education access shouldn't depend on borrowing. Parents and students alike recognize that learning hard things still matters—but not when the cost of learning creates a lifetime burden.
Frequently asked questions
What is Koji and how does it work?
Koji is Brilliant's AI tutor designed to help students think through problems using the Socratic Method. Rather than providing answers directly, it guides students through problem-solving reasoning, challenging them to think critically about the material.
How does Brilliant differ from traditional school math?
Brilliant emphasizes problem-solving over memorizing formulas and procedures. This approach teaches a transferable skill that applies across disciplines, whereas traditional school math focuses on learning and applying specific procedures.
Why does Sue Khim believe student debt must disappear?
Khim argues the issue lies in the existence of student debt itself, not just its cost. Making debt cheaper doesn't solve the fundamental problem that education access shouldn't require borrowing, which creates lifelong financial burdens.
