Spaces of uncertainty, vulnerability, and disquiet: Reflecting on the classroom experiences of LGBTQ+ STEM academics

Horswell, Michael

Abstract

Even in institutions that consider workplace diversity a positive contributor to institutional success, LGBTQ+ employees often characterise their workplaces as spaces of disquiet and personal compromise. Such experiences persist despite awareness of specific protections afforded by institutional policy.

This presentation will share elements of a project which explored the professional experiences of LGBTQ+ teaching academics in STEM disciplines. A series of open engagements, over three years, with a purposively recruited cohort of collaborators revealed consistent feelings of vulnerability within their work environment, which were noticeably intensified in classroom situations. In response to such feelings, collaborators adopted a range of strategies aimed at reducing their feelings of vulnerability, echoing the findings of other research into the workplace experiences of LGBTQ+ people.

I will present some of the stories told to me by project collaborators, consider their commonalities, and draw out some recommendations that arise from the project. These will focus on institutional culture and fostering a positive environment for all.

• Presentation Conference Type: Presentation / Talk
• Conference Name: 35th International Geographical Congress
• Start Date: Aug 24, 2024
• End Date: Aug 30, 2024
• Deposit Date: Jan 23, 2025
• Peer Reviewed: Not Peer Reviewed
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/13640212