1. LGBT Topics in the Adult ESL Classroom
Patrick Huang
LSC International College / EC Toronto
TESL Nova Scotia, 2016
Halifax, NS

2. - Introduction; Research questions
Group discussions 1
Research findings 1
Group discussions 2
Research findings 2
Further research areas
Bibliography; feedback

3. Three Research Questions
1. LGBT-related issues in the literature
2. A gay-identified teacher’s strategies
3. How can teachers be supported

4. Group Discussion 1 What LGBT-related issues have you experienced in
your practice? (Most prevalent / similar / unusual?)

5. Research Question 1: What LGBT-related issues?
A. Sexual identities and same-sex
relationships
B. Violent, homophobic language
C. Coming out for the teacher
D. Coming out for learners

6. Group Discussion 2
[What LGBT-related issues have you experienced in your practice? (Most prevalent / similar / unusual?)]
What measures or strategies are helpful in your experience?

7. Research Question 2: How did the teacher address LGBT-related issues in his class?
A. Selection and use of materials,
procedures, activities
B. Creating space
C. Allow transformation
D. Learners help address LGBT-related
issues
E. Support, concern, empathy from teacher

8. Research Question 3: How can teachers be supported to respond to LGBT-related issues?
A. Teacher’s consideration and awareness:
i. Investment
ii. Imagined communities
iii. Learners’ fear and experience of
homophobia
B. Creating and maintaining a safe space
C. Coming out and showing support

9. Research Question 3: How can teachers be supported to respond to LGBT-related issues? – cont’d
D. Inclusion
E. Inquiry
F. Transformation

10. Possible areas for further investigation
Female perspective
Mono- lingual / cultural setting (e.g. Taiwan; Mexico)
New immigrant context

11. References
Johnson, K. E., & Golombek, P. R. (2011). The transformative power of narrative in second language teacher education. TESOL Quarterly, 45(3),
Nelson, C.D. (2002). Why queer theory is useful in teaching. Journal of Gay and Lesbian Social Services, 14(2),

12. References – cont’d
Nelson, C.D. (2009). Sexual identities in English language education: Classroom conversations. New York: Routledge.
Peirce, B. N. (1995). Social identity, investment, and language learning. TESOL Quarterly, 29(1), 9-31.
Ravitch, L.M. (2016). Integrating LGBTQ Topics within the ESL Classroom. TESOL Conference 2016, Baltimore, Maryland.