What helps and hinders teachers in creating gender-inclusive classrooms

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Abstract

Why do so many teachers hesitate to act on their values of inclusion? This article introduces the concept of cis-paralysis to explain how fear of making mistakes can block educators’ engagement with gender diversity in Aotearoa New Zealand. Drawing on open-text responses from 42 educators, a thematic analysis generated themes that highlighted teachers’ strong curiosity, commitment, and desire to lead change, while also acknowledging some hesitation and discomfort. Using mental models as a theoretical lens, the analysis highlights how our habits of thought, beliefs, and assumptions can either create or limit opportunities for inclusive practice. By examining the beliefs, barriers, and support needs expressed in the data, this article provides insights into how teachers can be better supported to unlearn and develop more gender-inclusive mental models.

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Inkilä, M. (2025). What helps and hinders teachers in creating gender-inclusive classrooms. Set: Research Information for Teachers, 3, 28–37. https://doi.org/10.18296/set.1582
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