2. Values in Practice: Reimagining Value Education in Learning Spaces

What this episode covers

What do we really mean when we talk about value education? Is it a subject taught through textbooks and moral science periods, or is it something that lives in the everyday culture of classrooms, institutions, and communities?In this episode of The Chalk Talk Collective Podcast, host Lakshmi Karunakaran is joined by Asim Siddiqui, faculty member at Azim Premji University, for a thoughtful conversation on value education in contemporary learning spaces.Recorded at Visthar — a civil society organization committed to social justice and peace — this episode carries not just rich ideas, but also the gentle soundscape of birds and quiet conversation from one of North Bangalore’s calmest corners.Together, Lakshmi and Asim explore the history and structures of value education, the role of constitutional values in shaping democratic learning spaces, and the challenges and possibilities of engaging children and youth in conversations around empathy, justice, critical thinking, and compassion.The Chalk Talk Collective Podcast is brought to you by Teacher Plus magazine — a unique magazine for contemporary teachers in India. Visit www.teacherplus.org to access articles and other useful resources for educators and teachers.The episode also examines:How value education has evolved within Indian education systemsThe difference between teaching values and creating value-based learning environmentsPractical approaches educators can use with children and young peopleHow constitutional values can become lived experiences rather than abstract ideasWhether you are a teacher, educator, parent, school leader, or someone thinking deeply about education and society, this conversation offers both reflection and practical insight into nurturing more humane and thoughtful learning spaces.About the SpeakersLakshmi Karunakaran (Host)An art educator and development professional with over 20 years of experience, Lakshmi works as an independent consultant across education, children’s literature, and library initiatives. Previously, she headed the Parag Initiative of Tata Trusts. She currently is the Lead for the Harsha Parekh Library Awards instituted by the HT Parekh Foundation and collaborates with Eklavya’s publication programme.Asim Siddiqui (Guest)Asim specializes in Philosophy and Development Studies. His work focuses on humanizing access to education and health to strengthen democracy and build a compassionate society. He also collaborates with youth-focused organizations across India, facilitating workshops on critical thinking, emotional capacity-building, and social justice.Who This Episode Is ForTeachers and educatorsSchool leaders and administratorsLibrarians and literacy practitionersOrganizations working in education and reading initiatives

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