Maverick entrepreneurs hope to make AI use better
When Ethan Debnath and Sami Ali (’24 BS, Information Systems) met at The University of Texas at Arlington in 2020, they didn’t think four years later, they’d be on a journey to shape how students and universities utilize artificial intelligence (AI).
But that’s what they’re doing. Debnath, a computer science senior, and Ali recently co-founded Pluto Learning, an AI-powered study platform designed to improve student success by using AI ethically to form study groups and provide 24/7 tutoring. Their idea won a $25,000 prize at this fall’s MavPitch, UTA’s Shark Tank-style competition where students pitch business ideas. They won $40,000 in total from MavPitch after winning prize money last year for their concept.
"Pluto Learning's AI uses advanced technology to support students with course materials, syllabus details and other faculty-provided resources, guiding them through challenging concepts just like a teaching assistant would," Debnath explained. "Crucially, our platform’s AI includes robust safeguards to prevent and detect plagiarism, ensuring academic integrity."
Within the platform, professors can upload all the content necessary for classes and program the AI tutor to the extent that it can help. For example, Debnath said the AI can be programmed not to respond to “What is the answer to this equation?” but instead to guide a student to the answer.
Debnath said Pluto Learning’s AI can also create “study rooms” where students can meet virtually to study for an exam or work on homework together. They can also use this tool to meet and study in person.
“Our goal is to give students and academic institutions an AI platform they can trust,” Ali said. “As AI continues to gain prominence, institutions will enact policy regarding this tool, and we want to be at the forefront of that.”
Ali and Debnath said the idea for Pluto Learning came from their experience as UTA students. Debnath, a Peer-Led Team Learning leader at UTA’s Academic Success Center, said that despite the excellent resources provided by the University, students were not finding support for most advanced courses. Students wanted an easier way to find study groups and 24/7 help.
Debnath brought this to Ali’s attention, as well as his interest in helping colleges capitalize on the potential of AI learning safely. Pluto Learning was born out of their entrepreneurial spirit and tech backgrounds.
Since winning the highest MavPitch award, the two best friends have been busy. Over the last month, they showcased their platform to over 500 UTA students, raffled off an Xbox Series S and a Roku TV, and are engaging in talks with colleges to bring Pluto Learning to life.
“Looking back at my career at UTA, I never would have thought we’d have this opportunity. MavPitch was key to bringing Pluto Learning to life,” Ali said. “To put the cherry on top, I’m doing this with my best friend.”