The cultural roots of teacher associations: a case study from India

Teacher associations (TAs) are communities located in complex cultural spaces that may affect their functioning, vision, priorities, and policies. This case study of the English Language Teachers' Association of India (ELTAI) attempts to examine the relationship between the Association and the cultural space it inhabits, with specific reference to the national culture and traditions of charity in India. It explores how the tradition and history of charity in India and the characteristic features of the 'national culture' seem to affect various aspects of ELTAI's nature and functioning. It also attempts to identify some challenges emerging from this relationship that ELTAI seems to face. The present study offers ideas and insights relevant to other TAs, and contributes to the better understanding of, and communication among, TAs across cultures.