Building a framework to study the hetero norm in praxis

To improve equality in schools and to facilitate the identification of oppressive features of the classroom, a framework to indicate the heterosexual norm and its consequences is needed. The purpose of this paper is to construct this framework through a review of literature focusing on the school setting and texts related to equality in Swedish schools. Seven themes indicating the norm were found and denoted: repetition of desirability, dichotomization of sexes, differentiation of sexualities, hierarchy of positions, marginalization, issue making and personation. It is concluded that the framework could benefit from being applied on empirical material and that further attention should be paid to the various subject positions that the framework should address.

► Studying the impact of hetero norm. ► Promoting anti oppressive education. ► Equality work in education. ► Making sexuality visible in education.