Teaching Caste: Unraveling Indian Classroom Realities

• In Event: 21020 - Section on Sociology of Education Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Table 7: Curriculum and Pedagogy

Abstract

The caste system remains a significant concern within Indian society, operating relationally among various castes based on concepts of purity and pollution. Although the Indian state is committed to promoting caste justice and inclusivity through educational policies, the teaching of caste in today’s polarised climate presents a unique set of risks and challenges. As a result, incorporating caste into educational materials creates difficulties for educators in addressing this topic within school environments. Nevertheless, my doctoral fieldwork argues that the caste identities and power dynamics of teachers profoundly influence and shape their perspectives and teaching methodologies.

In light of this discussion, the present paper investigates the risks and challenges associated with teaching about caste in classroom settings, particularly concerning educators’ caste identities. Furthermore, it addresses the pedagogical challenges that teachers encounter when teaching about caste, as well as the manifestation of power dynamics and their own caste identities within the classroom. The methodological approach employed involves conducting comprehensive interviews with educators to explore their experiences related to teaching about caste in school contexts.

Author

• Nilesh Chandrakant Sawant, The University of Edinburgh