Rainbow Futures in Research and Teaching

In a world that is predominately shaped by cis-/heteronormative binaries, LGBTQIA+ communities are under regular attack in life, studies, and at work. Given the importance of promoting and affirming diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the current educational landscape, there is a growing movement in queering research and curriculum. Rejecting the rigidity of cis-/heteronormative frameworks, these approaches allow for more inclusive and equitable practices in research and pedagogy.

Rainbow Futures in Research and Teaching showcases pioneering work from queer scholars and allies in Australia, offering a unique exploration of how queering methodologies can be applied across disciplines. Queering methodology and pedagogy challenges and breaks down strict, binary and hierarchical ideas about gender and sexuality. The authors of this edited collection address urgent issues such as the ongoing marginalisation of LGBTQIA+ communities in education and society, and highlight the role of queer-inclusive research and teaching in promoting DEI. Contributors span a range of fields and disciplines – from Social Sciences to the Humanities, to STEM and Indigenous Studies, as well as norm-defying and creative contributions. This holistic approach provides a multifaceted technique to disrupt cis-/heteronormativity in education and scholarly research.

For those committed to challenging the status quo, from researchers to educators and advocates, this edited collection helps advance inclusive and creative practices that resist normative approaches to research and writing. Providing concrete examples of queering methodologies and heartfelt lived experiences authors equip readers with the rainbow toolkit to foster real-world change in their given field.

Julian Chen (they/them) is an Associate Professor of Applied Linguistics/TESOL and the Course Coordinator of Asian Languages at the School of Education, Curtin University.

Wendy Cumming-Potvin (she /her) is Professor and Executive Lead of Research in the School of Education, Murdoch University, Western Australia.

Bri McKenzie (she/her) is a professional learning designer and LGBTQIA+ inclusive education advocate working in Curtin University’s Learning Innovation and Teaching Excellence Centre.