ZHCES organises a seminar by Ajay Choudhary

Zakir Husain Centre for Educational Studies
School of Social Sciences

ZHCES Seminar Series

Classroom, Pedagogy and Caste Encounter

Ajay Choudhary
Chair Professor, Dr. Ambedkar Chair,
Symbiosis Centre for Ambedkar Studies,
Symbiosis International Deemed University, Pune

Abstract: The classroom serves as a catalyst for the cultivation of democratic values through the exchange of ideas rather than functioning as an ethnographic site. However, within the classroom, different participants interpret their surroundings through their own unique experiences. Pedagogical methods and approaches facilitate the generation of scientific ideas through communication, encouraging active participation in classroom discussions. It has been observed that individuals are more inclined to embrace ideas that do not challenge their existing beliefs. The manifestation of issues such as caste and gender in ethnographic sites creates biased and privileged spaces that hinder the understanding of caste-based social challenges. Understanding these challenges is crucial, as this bias is reflected in the form of detachment or aversion during communication. Consequently, individuals affected by caste discrimination either become passive observers or are perceived as having compromised positions within the social structure. I aim to examine teaching and learning environments, social location, and the classroom setting through an experiential approach.

Bio:  Ajay Choudhary is Chair Professor, Dr. Ambedkar Chair, Symbiosis Centre for Ambedkar Studies, Symbiosis International Deemed University, Pune. Previously, he worked as an Associate Professor at Hislop College, an affiliate of Nagpur University. His primary research interests are Sociology of Identity and Caste, Max Weber and Alfred Schutz on Meaning. He is currently working on the project Exploring Social and Educational Attainment of Disadvantaged Groups in Maharashtra and Evaluating Policies for Them’ and studying student performance and scholarship issues of government and Private schools in Pune City.

DATE: 22 August  2024 (Thursday)
TIME: 03:00 pm
VENUE: # 207, SSS-II
 (All are Welcome)