Murdoch University and the Higher Ed Australia Pride Practitioners (HEAPPS) WA recently hosted the launch of Rainbow Futures in Research and Teaching: Queering Methodology and Pedagogy in Australia.
The book brings together a collection of work from queer scholars and allies across Australia, exploring how to better incorporate LGBTIQA+ understanding into teaching methodology and curriculum.
Edited by Murdoch’s Professor Wendy Cumming-Potvin and Curtin University’s Associate Professor Julian Chen and Dr Bri McKenzie, the collection of works aims to break down binary and hierarchical ideas about gender and sexuality.
Contributions span a range of fields of expertise, including social sciences, humanities, Indigenous studies and STEM – providing concrete examples for queering curriculum and research and empowering readers to enact meaningful change.
Professor Cumming-Potvin said as an educator, it was important to immediately show students they are safe with you, adding even a small act, such as a slide at the front of a deck or an inclusive welcome address, can make a big difference.
“As an LGBTIQA+ ally, I set the scene for the classroom environment one step at a time. Before I formally interrogate curriculum, during my first workshop or lecture, I frame the class as a respectful and welcoming space for all students,” Professor Cumming-Potvin said.
“To visibly express my allyship, I describe my ally lanyard – pausing on themes such as Rainbow communities, inclusive language, all gender toilets and student-managed groups like the Queer Collective.”
Contributing experts include Curtin academic and Rainbow Futures WA CEO Dr Misty Farquhar OAM, ECU Equity Program Lead Stevie Lane, and RMIT’s Dr Alexandra Ciaffaglione.
More information about Rainbow Futures in Research and Teaching: Queering Methodology and Pedagogy in Australia is available here.
Declaration: OUTinPerth co-editors Graeme Watson and Leigh Andrew Hill are employees of ECU and Curtin respectively.
