ETHICS OF CARE: RECLAIMING HUMANITY IN TEACHING AND LEARNING

Abstract

The Ethics of Care provides a transformative framework for reimagining educational practice by centering relationships, empathy, and human interconnectedness. Unlike traditional models that emphasize standardization and individual achievement, a care-based approach foregrounds attentiveness to students’ lived experiences and the moral significance of nurturing supportive learning environments. Integrating care ethics in education strengthens teacher–student relationships, promotes emotional and social development, fosters inclusion, and enhances school climate. At the same time, implementation requires addressing challenges such as emotional strain, institutional constraints, and structural inequities. This paper explores the core principles of the Ethics of Care, its benefits within educational contexts, and effective strategies for practical integration, while acknowledging potential barriers to implementation. Ultimately, it argues that embracing care as both a moral commitment and pedagogical approach is essential for cultivating compassionate, resilient, and equitable learning communities.