Assertion (A): Effective teachers familiarize themselves with daily lives and socio-cultural backgrounds of learners.
Reason (R): Learning takes place in a social context.
Choose the correct option:

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

Effective teachers recognize that students come from diverse socio-cultural environments, and understanding these contexts allows them to design learning experiences that are relevant, meaningful, and culturally responsive. When teachers are aware of students’ cultural backgrounds, economic realities, and community lives, they can better connect classroom content with real-life experiences.

This assertion is supported by the sociocultural theory of learning, especially emphasized by Lev Vygotsky, which states that learning is inherently a social activity. According to this theory, cognitive development is largely influenced by interaction with more knowledgeable others (teachers, peers, parents) within the child’s cultural environment. Language, norms, and cultural tools mediate learning.

Therefore, the reason directly supports the assertion: if learning happens in a social context, it is logical and essential for teachers to understand that context in order to make teaching effective. It helps foster trust, respect, and relevance, all of which are essential for deeper learning.

Information Booster

1. Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) highlights the importance of social interaction in learning.
2. Culturally responsive teaching improves engagement, retention, and performance.
3. Funds of knowledge approach uses learners' home experiences as educational assets.
4. Teachers act as mediators between the child’s background and formal knowledge.
5. Understanding students’ lives helps in creating inclusive and equitable classrooms.