This summary outlines research on culturally responsive teaching practices that create culturally safe learning environments.

Every Australian student has a right to a complete, relevant and responsive education that is designed and delivered to give them the educational success to which they aspire. To achieve this for First Nations students and their families, schools and systems should be culturally responsive and strive to create culturally safe learning environments.

This research summary outlines research on culturally responsive teaching practices that create culturally safe learning environments. The Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO)’s investigation shows that research in this area is nascent and limited, though there is emerging convergence on some themes. There is more work to be done to build the evidence base for effective culturally responsive practices, particularly on approaches to implementation that lead to sustained improvement.

More research could also help build the evidence base that culturally responsive practices are beneficial for Indigenous students and non-Indigenous students alike.