LGBT+ concepts in the primary classroom : a possibility?

Abstract

This dissertation has been designed in light of the Civil Union and Gender Identity Acts enacted in 2014/5 by the Maltese State. It questions the possibility of having LGBT+ topics discussed with children in the primary classroom. It first looks into the local and foreign literature to determine which factors are encouraging/hindering this possibility. Then, using structured interviews and focus groups, the opinions of parents and teachers are gathered in order to reflect on the question posed by this research. The participants were presented with three social situations involving different members from the LGBT+ community within a primary school context. These stories were then analysed through a thematic approach, thus establishing age appropriateness, other beliefs and lack of awareness as the three main factors affecting such a possibility. The dissertation ends with a reflection on the information which was gathered and finally suggesting ways through which this possibility can be mediated.