Value Education in the Digital Age: A Conversation with Pinky Roy

In episode 03 of The Podcast with Amit Baruah, I had the immense pleasure of reconnecting with Pinky Roy, an educator with over a decade of experience and my former class teacher at BK Bajoria School. As someone who played a pivotal role in shaping my early understanding of language and communication, Pinky taught English with a rare blend of warmth and discipline that left a lasting impression. Our conversation this time wasn’t limited to fond memories but instead focused on a topic that concerns everyone—education in a changing world.

From the rise of digital platforms to the shifting dynamics of teacher-student relationships, our discussion painted a vivid picture of how education has evolved and where it is headed. What stood out most was Pinky’s unwavering belief in the enduring significance of value education—something she feels has been pushed to the sidelines in today’s information-driven world. This episode is not just a conversation but a heartfelt reflection on how we, as a society, view education, respect our teachers, and prioritize the values that sustain us.

Changing Times, Changing Values

Our conversation began with a thought-provoking question: How has education changed over the years? Pinky explained that while the tools of learning have advanced significantly, some fundamental elements seem to have eroded. “Back in the day,” she said, “education was as much about instilling values as it was about academic excellence. The respect for teachers, the classroom environment, and even the way students interacted with one another reflected a sense of community and shared responsibility. That’s something I don’t see as much anymore.”

She attributed this shift partly to the accessibility of information online. Today, students can find tutorials, lectures, and answers to almost any question with a quick internet search. While this democratization of knowledge is undoubtedly a positive development, Pinky argued that it has also led to a sense of complacency among students. “Many students feel that they don’t need teachers because everything is available online,” she observed. “But what they miss is that education is not just about acquiring information; it’s about understanding, applying, and most importantly, building character.”

The Role of Teachers in a Digital World

Pinky’s reflections on the role of teachers in this new landscape were particularly compelling. She described how teaching has transformed from being a revered profession to one that often goes unappreciated. “There was a time when a teacher’s word was final, and their role in a student’s life was irreplaceable,” she said. “But now, with so many sources of knowledge, students often question the need for classroom learning.”

However, Pinky was quick to point out that no amount of technology can replace the human touch that teachers bring to the classroom. She emphasized that teachers are not just conveyors of information but mentors, role models, and guides who help shape a student’s moral and ethical compass. “A YouTube tutorial can teach you how to solve a math problem,” she said, “but it can’t teach you empathy, kindness, or resilience. That’s where teachers come in.”

The Importance of Value Education

One of the most striking aspects of our conversation was Pinky’s emphasis on value education. In her view, the most critical lessons students learn in school are not found in textbooks but in the subtle, everyday interactions that take place within the classroom. She recalled numerous instances where students learned the importance of honesty, teamwork, and respect simply by observing and interacting with their peers and teachers.

“Value education is about preparing students for life, not just exams,” she explained. “It’s about teaching them how to navigate challenges, build meaningful relationships, and contribute positively to society.” Pinky lamented that in the race for academic and professional success, these lessons are often overlooked. “Parents and students alike are so focused on grades and careers that they forget the importance of character,” she said.

She also stressed that value education is not a separate subject but an integral part of the learning process. “Every lesson, every interaction, every activity in school has the potential to teach values,” she said. “It’s up to teachers and parents to recognize and nurture these opportunities.”

Classrooms as Spaces for Connection

One of the most beautiful moments in our conversation came when Pinky described the classroom as more than just a space for learning. “A classroom is a microcosm of society,” she said. “It’s where students learn to interact with people from different backgrounds, resolve conflicts, and build lasting friendships. These are lessons that no textbook can teach.”

She recounted stories of students who initially struggled to fit in but eventually found their place through the support and encouragement of their peers and teachers. “These moments remind me why I became a teacher in the first place,” she said. “It’s not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about helping students become the best version of themselves.”

Pinky also highlighted the role of extracurricular activities in fostering social connections and building life skills. Whether it’s a debate competition, a school play, or a sports event, these activities provide students with invaluable opportunities to learn teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. “These are the moments students will remember long after they’ve forgotten the lessons in their textbooks,” she said.

Respect for Teachers: A Vanishing Virtue?

As we delved deeper into the discussion, we touched upon a sensitive but important topic—the declining respect for teachers. Pinky observed that while teachers were once held in high regard, today, they are often viewed as service providers rather than mentors. “It’s disheartening to see how the teacher-student relationship has changed,” she said. “There’s less personal connection and more transactional interaction.”

She attributed this shift partly to the changing attitudes of parents, who sometimes prioritize their children’s opinions over the authority of teachers. “When parents question a teacher’s methods or decisions in front of their children, it undermines the teacher’s authority and sets a precedent for disrespect,” she explained. “This not only affects the teacher but also hampers the student’s ability to learn and grow.”

However, Pinky remained optimistic about the future. She believes that with the right efforts, it’s possible to rebuild the trust and respect that form the foundation of the teacher-student relationship. “It starts with acknowledging the vital role teachers play in shaping not just individuals but society as a whole,” she said.

The Balance Between Technology and Tradition

A significant portion of our conversation revolved around finding the right balance between technology and traditional methods of teaching. While Pinky acknowledged the benefits of digital tools, she cautioned against relying on them exclusively. “Technology is a tool, not a substitute for human interaction,” she said. “It should complement, not replace, traditional teaching methods.”

She shared examples of how she has incorporated technology into her teaching to make lessons more engaging and interactive. “I use videos, online quizzes, and other digital resources to enhance the learning experience,” she said. “But I always make sure that the core values of respect, discipline, and empathy remain at the heart of my teaching.”

Pinky also emphasized the importance of teaching students how to use technology responsibly. “In a world where information is just a click away, it’s crucial to teach students how to differentiate between credible sources and misinformation,” she said. “This is a skill that will serve them well in every aspect of their lives.”

A Message to Students and Parents

As our conversation drew to a close, Pinky shared a heartfelt message for students and parents. To students, she said, “Remember that education is not just about grades or degrees; it’s about becoming a better person. Value your teachers, learn from your peers, and always strive to be kind, honest, and compassionate.”

To parents, she said, “Your support and involvement are crucial to your child’s success. Encourage them to respect their teachers, participate in extracurricular activities, and embrace the values they learn in school. And most importantly, lead by example.”

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on this conversation, I couldn’t help but think about the profound impact teachers like Pinky Roy have had on my life. Her words reminded me of the countless lessons I’ve learned, not just in the classroom but through the relationships and experiences that have shaped me.

In a world that is changing at an unprecedented pace, it’s easy to overlook the things that truly matter. But as Pinky so beautifully put it, “Education is not just about preparing for a career; it’s about preparing for life.” And that is a lesson we must never forget.