Biography and expertise
Biography
Parisa Tadi is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Education at Southern Cross University, based at the Melbourne campus. She is a scholar and educator whose work explores how educational theory and practice can promote equity, inclusion, and children’s rights across diverse cultural and socio-economic contexts. Her research examines how teacher education, family engagement, and culturally responsive pedagogies can strengthen inclusive learning environments, particularly for migrant, refugee, and ethnic minority communities in both national and international contexts. Conducted in collaboration with national and international partners, her research positions education as a foundation for social justice, resilience, and collective wellbeing.
Parisa's work contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals
Research
Parisa’s research is grounded in social justice, human rights, and inclusive education, with a focus on advancing equity and children’s rights in learning contexts. She investigates how participatory and community-based research can promote fairness, dignity, and inclusion for all communities, particularly those from migrant and ethnic minority. Her work bridges theory and practice to inform teacher education, curriculum design, and policy development that address inequality, bias, and social responsibility in education. By highlighting children’s voices and lived experiences, her research seeks to build stronger connections between families, educators, and communities.
Parisa’s current studies examine literacy development and shared reading practices in refugee communities, the role of education in fostering resilience and social cohesion, and the practical realisation of children’s rights in early learning settings.
Community engagement
Parisa is deeply committed to community collaboration and participatory engagement. She partners with early childhood centres, schools, and community organisations to enhance child protection, support refugee and migrant families, and promote awareness of children’s rights.
Teaching
With over two decades of experience across early childhood, primary, and tertiary sectors in Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, China, and Iran, Parisa brings a global and inclusive perspective to her teaching. Her approach is relational, emphasising collaboration, engagement, and responsiveness to the diverse needs of learners. Guided by values of equity, diversity, and social responsibility, she prepares educators to support all children and their families.
Parisa’s teaching philosophy prioritises reflective practice, ethical decision-making, and leadership development, empowering future educators to promote fairness, justice, and inclusion in their classrooms and communities.
Other
Parisa serves as Associate Editor of the International Journal of Early Childhood.