LGBTQ+ in Literacy, Culture and Language Education

Teaching LGBTQ+ issues in English in South Korean classrooms can be a complex and sensitive endeavor due to the cultural, social, and legal landscape of the country. South Korea is known for its conservative attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights, although there has been gradual progress in recent years.

Educators who choose to address LGBTQ+ issues in English classrooms may encounter various challenges and considerations:

Cultural Sensitivity: South Korean society traditionally values conformity and respect for authority. Discussing LGBTQ+ topics may challenge cultural norms and may be perceived as controversial or inappropriate by some students, parents, or administrators.

Legal Restrictions: South Korea lacks comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals. While there are no explicit laws banning discussions on LGBTQ+ topics in schools, educators may face pressure from conservative groups or policies that discourage such discussions.

Curriculum Constraints: The national curriculum in South Korea may not include LGBTQ+ issues in English language education. Educators may need to find creative ways to incorporate these topics within existing curriculum frameworks, such as through literature, media studies, or discussions on human rights and diversity.

Teacher Preparedness: Teachers may not have received formal training on how to address LGBTQ+ topics in the classroom. They may need to educate themselves on LGBTQ+ issues, inclusive language, and strategies for creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.

Student Receptiveness: Student attitudes towards LGBTQ+ issues can vary widely. Some students may be open-minded and receptive to learning about diversity and inclusion, while others may hold more conservative views or may feel uncomfortable discussing these topics.

Parental Concerns: Some parents may express concerns or objections to their children learning about LGBTQ+ issues in school. Educators may need to communicate effectively with parents, address concerns, and emphasize the educational value of discussing diversity and human rights.

Despite these challenges, addressing LGBTQ+ issues in English classrooms in South Korea can also provide valuable opportunities for fostering critical thinking, empathy, and understanding among students. By approaching these topics with sensitivity, respect, and inclusivity, educators can help create more inclusive school environments and prepare students to engage with a diverse and interconnected world.

Resources

2019 KOTESOL International Conference 

2018 Workshop at KOTESOL Daejeon-Chungcheong Chapter Symposium
"Students Discuss Queer Topics: How Educators Can Foster Communication"

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Key References

Read anything by Mollie Blackburn 

Burns, R. & Johnson, J. Reconciling the Personal and the Professional: Coming Out from the Classroom Closet. Chapter 3 Educators Queering Academia: Critical Memoirs. Eds sj Miller & N.M. Rodriguez. Peter Lang. 2019?

Mason, K. (2014). Out of the Closet and onto the Playing Field: Two Decades of Lesbian Athletes in YA Literature. English Journal, 54-61.

Miller, S. J. (2015). A queer literacy framework promoting (a) gender and (a) sexuality self-determination and justice. English Journal, 37-44.

Neary, A., Gray, B., & O'Sullivan, M. (2016). A queer politics of emotion: Reimagining sexualities and schooling. Gender and Education, 28(2), 250-265.

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