Commentary

Uncovering Silences in the Field

Ekta Singla | pp. 71–79

Abstract :
Situated within the classroom’s literacy context, the current paper examines children’s silences within formal pedagogy, informal peer interactions, and research activities. The episodes highlight that silences are an outcome of a school culture based on social and cultural hierarchies, with caste as a significant factor. The meaning of children’s silences and its effect on the research process is discussed. In conclusion, the importance of noticing silences in the field is discussed.

Keywords: Silence, literacy, caste, school culture, peer group