Patton, Kelsey Erin

Reflexive to Responsive: Negotiating Anti-Homophobia and Counter-Heteronormative Pedagogies

Keywords: anti-homophobia / counter heteronormative, reflexive practices, responsive pedagogy  

Abstract

This project evolves from my own reflexive process as a pre-service educator committed to LGBTQ-inclusive education. I seek to develop an understanding of critical reflexive practices with the goal of disrupting systemic oppression embedded within pedagogy. My research explores some effects of homophobia, heteronormativity and transphobia on students and educators. Semi-structured interviews with two exemplary educators are used to examine their perspectives on equity, safety and inclusivity and consider barriers to reflexive and responsive pedagogy. In this process, I investigate the value of engaging pre-service educators in reflexive practices through critical awareness of their social location within homophobic, heteronormative and other intersecting systems of oppression. Further, I examine responsive strategies: practices that enable teachers to better negotiate inclusive pedagogy. In considering these practices, participants reveal the importance of moving from reflexive practices to responsive pedagogy. 

Acknowledgements

Thank you to the participants for sharing your wisdom, your reflections and your powerful visions for education. Thanks to my supervisor, Daphne Heywood, who in every action, inspires powerful and genuine education for change. And last, but not least, to my partner, Suzy, for her unending support: Thank you for being all at once fierce, strong, humble and dedicated, and for making a difference in every moment; in every day.