In the last decade transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals have become increasingly visible in our families, culture, and public discourse. This course explores the concept of gender identity for people who are curious about the nature of gender, the process of gender affirmation, or changing social dynamics. Participants will learn the unique challenges faced by the TGNC population as well as develop the skills to build inclusive spaces in all spheres of their life. This course was developed under the Joycelyn Elders Chair for Sexual Health Education at the University of Minnesota.
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Syllabus
WEEK 1
Welcome!
In the last decade transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals have become increasingly visible in our families and culture. This course explores the concept of gender identity for people who are interested in the nature of gender, the process of gender affirmation, or changing social dynamics. Participants will learn the unique challenges faced by individuals within the TGNC population as well as develop the skills to build inclusive spaces in all spheres of their life. Each module will contain original video content, readings, and other multimedia to enhance the learning experience. Throughout the course, participants will be asked to demonstrate your knowledge via short multiple choice quizzes and/or discussion sections that challenge you to reflect on your learning experiences. This course was developed under the Joycelyn Elders Chair in Sexual Health Education at the University of Minnesota.
WEEK 2
Introduction to Gender Identity
Gender identity is a wide spectrum beyond the binary of male and female. Each and every one of us has a gender identity innate to our experience as humans. While gender is all around us, much remains unknown about the development of gender identity. This module introduces the basics of gender and explores how gender affects our daily lives.
WEEK 3
Digital Stories
A collection of first-person narratives exploring the ups and downs of daily life as a transgender or gender nonconforming (TGNC) individual from several points of view.
WEEK 4
Understanding the Process of Gender Affirmation
Developing a healthy gender is a lifelong process. For individuals that identify as transgender or gender nonconforming, the process of gender affirmation can take many forms as they age from children to older adults.
WEEK 5
History and Culture
From advocacy to sports, transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals have made significant contributions to our culture. Learn about the history of prominent TGNC individuals and movements while contributing to the discussion of how these figures (and many others) have been portrayed by the media.
WEEK 6
Society and Public Policy in the United States
Anti-transgender policy discussions from "Bathroom Bills" to open participation in the military have been on the forefront of national conversation for the last decade. This module will delve into the disparities that transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals face in society at large from healthcare to incarceration and discrimination.
WEEK 7
Creating Inclusive Spaces
Creating inclusive spaces for transgender populations can be done with positive awareness. From becoming an actionable ally to helping workplace and school transition spaces to promoting transgender awareness and acceptance will bring the inclusiveness all populations and not just those who are different from ourselves.
