Pedagogy for diversity: mediating between tradition and equality in schools

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to provide evidence-based guidance for educational practitioners and, in particular, for those in leadership positions in schools, on good practice in developing and implementing school level strategies and actions to promote an appreciation of diversity in schools and society. IntroductionThe focus of the paper will be on a school level action that was developed and managed in response to homophobia. This school level action was drawn from a case study conducted in a comprehensive co-educational school in the Republic of Ireland. Of particular importance in this case study is the fact that the school's chaplain took the initiative in trying to address homophobia among the students. As a religious minister she was in fact trying to mediate between the traditional teaching of the Catholic Church and the assumed values of society where sexuality is concerned and, in doing so, she hoped to move her students and her school to a new reality that reflected a greater appreciation of diversity in relation to sexuality. We will begin by briefly examining the phenomenon of bullying in schools and more specifically the effects of homophobic bullying on young people. We will also briefly outline the challenge presented by the conflict between the traditional teaching of the Catholic Church on homosexuality and the emerging equality legislation which pertains to the school in this case study.

Bullying and cyberbullying studies in the school‐aged population on the island of Ireland: A meta‐analysis

“…Students reported feelings of increased safety and decreased bullying after the intervention although no objective measure of bullying rates was implemented to investigate its impact. Similarly, O'Higgins Norman, Goldrick, and Harrison () delivered a pilot programme aimed at reducing homophobic bullying in a co‐educational post‐primary school. The study gathered pre‐ and post‐intervention levels of homophobia among students, and the results showed a marginal increase in knowledge and increased empathy among males after exposure to the intervention.…”

Educating children about sexual orientation and gender identity post-marriage equality in Australia

“…It is important the LGBTQ+ students have access to support staff who understand their issues and are trained to respond accordingly (O'Higgins-Norman et al, 2010). These may be school counsellors or nurses, level coordinators or designated teachers.…”