"Not communicating is still communicating. When teachers do not have LGBT-inclusive curricular materials or lesson plans, they are still sending a message to their students."
This article from Teaching Tolerance outlines the harmful nature of heteronormativity in the classroom, and what teachers can do to mitigate it. I find this article useful because I want to be a teacher that is known for their inclusive approach to education.
Heteronormativity can exist in many forms in the classroom, from curriculum, to the choice of posters put up on the walls. It is imperative that educators take an active role in explicitly incorporating gender-responsive practices in their classrooms. By ignoring the issue, educators are not explicitly discriminating against LGBTQ students, but they are implicitly communicating to their LGBTQ students that their identity has no value and no reason to be represented in their class.
This resource also lays out five practical and proactive steps to eschew heteronormativity, and build a gender-inclusive classroom:
1. Consider that at least one child in your class is LGBT.
2. Be inclusive and incorporate LGBT examples in your teaching and classroom discussions.
3. Show support by having LGBT-related books, signage, stickers or resource materials.
4. Create an open, safe and affirming space.
5. Be vulnerable, ask questions and have authentic conversations.
No comments:
Post a Comment