On March 2, 2025, faculty Nasala Chitrakar delivered a compelling speech on the importance of balancing prudence and passion in the classroom, as part of the Research Seminar Series hosted by Martin Chautari. In her talk titled "Inviting Care into Learning," she shares insights from her 7–8 years of teaching experience at Thames, advocating for a care-centered approach to language education. She presents teaching as a political act—one that informs, disrupts, and empowers students to become independent thinkers. She critiques the traditional, exam-driven education system, highlighting how it leads to student disengagement and a disconnect from purpose.
Chitrakar reframes education in her classroom by acknowledging student-led discussions and independent exploration, rather than relying on rigid, dictated learning. Viewing teaching as relational work, she emphasizes healthy boundaries and shared accountability. Her focus shifts from content memorization to skill-building, ensuring students have structured spaces for practice and measurable growth, all while honoring their diverse learning needs.
By disrupting conventional teacher-student power dynamics, she positions educators as co-learners and facilitators, rather than strict authority figures. While recognizing the necessity of board exams, she integrates writing frameworks that not only meet academic standards but also build transferable skills for students' futures. Through her care-centered framework, Chitrakar cultivates collaborative learning environments that prioritize student agency, voice, and empowerment.
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