TIANQI ZHANG (NAGASAKI UNIVERSITY)

PROMOTING LGBTQ+ INCLUSIVITY IN JAPANESE HIGHER EDUCATION: AN AUTOETHNOGRAPHIC STUDY : INCLUSIVITY IN THE CLASSROOM

In recent years, topics related to diversity, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ have gained widespread attention and popularity in Japan. However, there is still a lack of designated LGBTQ+ spaces and resources on college campuses across the nation. This lack of representation limits students' exposure to gender and sexual diversity perspectives within their studies. Prior studies have highlighted the significance of incorporating LGBTQ+ perspectives into English language teaching (ELT) to foster diversity and inclusivity. Through creating an inclusive classroom environment that encourages open and critical conversations and discussions as well as personal reflection on queer issues, students can gain greater awareness and acceptance of gender and sexual diversity. Based on my personal experiences as a diversity worker and English language instructor at a national university in Japan, this study aims to shed light on the process of creating a more inclusive educational setting. This autoethnographic project focuses on promoting inclusivity and deconstructing stereotypes and heteronormative discourses in higher education in Japan through the selection and use of inclusive materials and activities in an English learning program. It presents practical examples, personal reflections, and a nuanced understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with creating inclusive learning environments both inside and outside the classroom.

Panda is Coaching Fellow at the School of Global Humanities and Social Sciences, Nagasaki University. They are working on projects that examining the impact of queer student groups and facilities cater to gender and sexual diversity on Japanese campuses, as well as the experiences of queer expatriates residing in Japan.