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Jacob McWilliams, Suraj Uttamchandani, and Daryl Boyd

In this course, you will learn about the history of LGBTQ+ issues in education and develop strategies for building more inclusive learning environments for students, teachers, and community members. This course will provide you with insights and equip you with strategies for exploring inclusion for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning learners in your specific professional context. Throughout the videos, reading assignments, and additional resources we’ve provided, you’ll be exposed to a range of concepts and techniques for enhancing LGBTQ+ inclusion. You’ll be challenged to integrate those concepts and techniques in your practice as an educator. We’ve created this course for anybody who’s interested in learning more about LGBTQ+ identities and experiences. We specifically designed it for educators who want to explore issues related to LGBTQ+ inclusion in their classrooms. Whether you’re brand new to this topic or you’ve been thinking and talking about LGBTQ+ issues for most of your life, we hope you’ll learn and grow as you work through this class.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Queering the Schoolhouse
Welcome to Queering the Schoolhouse course. In this short module you will get the chance to know the instructors who will help you learn and understand LGBTQ+ issues in education. We hope you enjoy in taking this course as much as we enjoyed creating it.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides strategies for building a more inclusive learning environment for LGBTQ+ students
Suitable for both beginners and experienced educators
Covers a comprehensive range of topics related to LGBTQ+ inclusion in education
Instructors are experts in the field of LGBTQ+ education
May require additional research for individuals seeking in-depth knowledge on specific LGBTQ+ topics
Course materials may not align with the latest developments in LGBTQ+ research and best practices

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Reviews summary

Practical guide to lgbtq+ inclusion

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in understanding LGBTQ+ inclusion within educational settings. Students particularly value the practical strategies offered for creating more inclusive school environments, covering topics from pronoun usage to curriculum evaluation. The course is described as informative and well-structured, handling sensitive subjects with care. While some learners with existing knowledge found it a good refresher, others felt it might be too basic if they were seeking deeper dives into specific areas. Overall, the feedback indicates a largely positive experience for those looking to begin or enhance their journey towards becoming more LGBTQ+-inclusive educators.
Appreciation for instructor knowledge and delivery.
"The instructors were knowledgeable and presented the material clearly and engagingly."
"I really connected with the instructors and found their insights valuable."
"Their passion for the subject matter is evident and made the course more impactful."
Well-suited for those new to the topic.
"As someone relatively new to this topic, I found this course very accessible and easy to follow."
"It's a great starting point if you're just beginning to explore LGBTQ+ inclusion in education."
"I had limited prior knowledge, and the course built my understanding effectively."
Addresses topics with care and respect.
"The instructors handle potentially sensitive topics with such care and respect."
"I felt the content was presented in a thoughtful and sensitive manner, which is vital."
"It's great how they navigated complex issues with grace and provided a safe learning space."
Covers essential history and current issues.
"The historical context provided was insightful and helped me understand the current landscape."
"I appreciate the overview of LGBTQ+ experiences in schools; it's a crucial starting point."
"This course gives a good foundational understanding of the key issues facing LGBTQ+ students and educators."
Offers actionable steps for LGBTQ+ inclusion.
"I gained actionable strategies that I can immediately implement in my classroom."
"The module on the five strategies for showing up was incredibly helpful and concrete."
"It provided me with practical tools and strategies for creating a more inclusive space for LGBTQ+ students."
May lack depth for learners with prior knowledge.
"While informative, much of the content was a review for me as I had some prior experience."
"I was hoping for a deeper dive into certain areas, but it felt more like an introductory overview."
"If you're already quite familiar with these topics, some modules might seem a bit basic."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Queering the Schoolhouse: LGBTQ+ Inclusion for Educators with these activities:
Review the history of LGBTQ+ activism
Refreshing your knowledge of LGBTQ+ history will provide you with a deeper understanding of the context of LGBTQ+ issues in education.
Browse courses on LGBTQ+ History
Show steps
  • Read articles and books about LGBTQ+ history
  • Watch documentaries and films about LGBTQ+ activism
  • Visit LGBTQ+ museums and historical sites
Explore online resources for LGBTQ+ educators
Exploring online resources will help you stay up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in LGBTQ+ education.
Browse courses on Online Resources
Show steps
  • Search for online resources on LGBTQ+ education
  • Visit websites and organizations that provide support and resources for LGBTQ+ educators
  • Follow LGBTQ+ educators on social media
Read Gender Queer: A Memoir by Maia Kobabe
Reading this book will provide you with a personal and insightful account of one person's journey to understand their gender identity.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow a copy of the book
  • Read the book in its entirety
  • Reflect on the book's themes and messages
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Join or start an LGBTQ+ student group
Joining or starting an LGBTQ+ student group will provide you with a supportive community and opportunities to connect with other LGBTQ+ students.
Show steps
  • Research LGBTQ+ student groups on your campus
  • Attend a meeting or event to learn more
  • If there is not an existing group, consider starting one
Create a resource guide for LGBTQ+ students
Creating a resource guide will help you synthesize and deepen your understanding of the resources available to LGBTQ+ students.
Show steps
  • Research organizations and resources that support LGBTQ+ students
  • Categorize and organize the resources you find
  • Create a document or website that presents the resources in a user-friendly way
Mentor an LGBTQ+ youth
Mentoring an LGBTQ+ youth will allow you to share your knowledge and experience, and help them develop their own sense of identity and self-acceptance.
Browse courses on Mentorship
Show steps
  • Contact local LGBTQ+ organizations to inquire about mentoring opportunities
  • Attend training or workshops on LGBTQ+ youth mentorship
  • Meet with your mentee regularly and provide support and guidance
Develop a lesson plan that incorporates LGBTQ+ themes
Developing a lesson plan will help you apply the strategies you learn in this course to your own teaching practice.
Browse courses on Curriculum Development
Show steps
  • Choose a topic or concept that you want to teach
  • Research LGBTQ+ perspectives and experiences related to the topic
  • Incorporate LGBTQ+ themes and perspectives into your lesson plan
  • Consider how you will create a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students

Career center

Learners who complete Queering the Schoolhouse: LGBTQ+ Inclusion for Educators will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Higher Education Administrator
Administering institutes of higher education requires detailed knowledge of education, and **Queering the Schoolhouse** deepens an understanding of modern sociocultural issues in education. This course offers strategies for creating an inclusive environment for students and faculty, which is essential for any educational institution.
Social and Community Service Manager
This role works in tandem with young people and students. Therefore, an understanding of the issues that LGBTQ+ students face is paramount to successful service management. Educators are frequently called upon to provide guidance, facilitate social change, and design programs. By taking **Queering the Schoolhouse,** you gain the tools to better serve this community.
LGBTQ+ Activist
The resources and strategies provided in **Queering the Schoolhouse** directly apply to an LGBTQ+ activist’s work. The course provides a comprehensive exploration of LGBTQ+ issues in education and offers techniques to foster inclusion. Whether you're advocating for policies or educating the public, this course can equip you with vital knowledge.
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
**Queering the Schoolhouse** addresses the creation of inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ students, faculty, and community members. This course provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and offers practical strategies for promoting diversity and inclusion within educational institutions.
Curriculum Developer
Curriculum development necessitates an understanding of diverse student populations and their unique needs. **Queering the Schoolhouse** provides strategies for evaluating and refining curricular materials to ensure inclusivity for LGBTQ+ students. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills to create more equitable and representative curricula.
School Counselor
**Queering the Schoolhouse** provides strategies for creating a LGBTQ+ inclusive environment within schools. This is a vital skill for school counselors, as they work closely with students and play a key role in fostering a safe and supportive learning environment. The course offers valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ students and equips counselors to provide effective support.
LGBTQ+ Studies Professor
**Queering the Schoolhouse** provides a comprehensive overview of LGBTQ+ issues in education and offers strategies for creating inclusive learning environments. These insights are invaluable for LGBTQ+ studies professors, as they strive to create rigorous and relevant curricula that reflect the experiences and perspectives of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Education Policy Analyst
**Queering the Schoolhouse** offers a deep dive into the history of LGBTQ+ issues in education and provides strategies for building more inclusive learning environments. This knowledge is essential for education policy analysts, as they work to develop and advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusion for all students.
Nonprofit Program Manager
Nonprofits dedicated to LGBTQ+ advocacy and support can greatly benefit from the insights provided in **Queering the Schoolhouse**. This course offers strategies for creating inclusive environments, addressing the specific needs of LGBTQ+ individuals, and building strong community partnerships. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in the nonprofit sector.
Youth Advocate
Youth advocates work to improve the lives of young people, and understanding the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth is crucial. **Queering the Schoolhouse** provides a comprehensive overview of LGBTQ+ issues in education and offers strategies for creating inclusive environments. This knowledge can empower youth advocates to better support and advocate for LGBTQ+ youth.
LGBTQ+ Health Educator
LGBTQ+ health educators play a vital role in promoting the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ communities. **Queering the Schoolhouse** offers valuable insights into the unique health needs and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as strategies for creating inclusive and affirming healthcare environments. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in the field of LGBTQ+ health.
Human Resources Manager
**Queering the Schoolhouse** provides strategies for creating an LGBTQ+-inclusive workplace. This is essential for HR managers, who are responsible for fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. The course offers insights into the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ employees and equips HR managers with the tools to create a more equitable and supportive workplace.
Diversity Trainer
Creating inclusive learning environments includes understanding the unique experiences and needs of LGBTQ+ people. **Queering the Schoolhouse** offers a comprehensive overview of LGBTQ+ issues in education and provides strategies for building inclusive learning environments. This knowledge is essential for diversity trainers, as they work to create awareness and understanding of LGBTQ+ issues and promote inclusivity in various settings.
Community Organizer
**Queering the Schoolhouse** offers valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities and provides strategies for creating inclusive environments. This knowledge is essential for community organizers, as they work to build strong and supportive communities for all. By taking this course, you can gain the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in the field of community organizing.
Social Worker
LGBTQ+ individuals face unique challenges and barriers in accessing healthcare, housing, and other essential services. **Queering the Schoolhouse** provides a comprehensive overview of LGBTQ+ issues in education and offers strategies for creating inclusive environments. This knowledge is essential for social workers, as they work to provide support and services to LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Queering the Schoolhouse: LGBTQ+ Inclusion for Educators.
This play Pulitzer Prize-winning epic that explores the lives of gay men and women during the AIDS crisis. It powerful and moving work of art that must-read for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history and activism.
Provides comprehensive information and support for parents and families of transgender children. It covers topics such as understanding transgender identity, supporting a transgender child's transition, and advocating for transgender rights.
Provides a comprehensive history of the gay and lesbian movement in America. It valuable resource for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history and activism.
Provides a detailed account of the Stonewall Riots, which are considered to be the start of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. It valuable resource for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history and activism.
This play powerful and moving account of the early days of the AIDS crisis. It valuable resource for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history and activism.
This graphic memoir provides a personal and powerful account of growing up genderqueer. It explores topics such as gender identity, gender expression, and the challenges of living in a binary world.
Collection of essays and stories from LGBTQ+ people who have overcome adversity and bullying. It powerful and inspiring read for anyone who is struggling with their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Provides a sociological analysis of gender identity and the social order. It explores topics such as the history of gender, the social construction of gender, and the challenges faced by transgender and non-binary people.
This workbook provides practical skills and exercises for queer and transgender people to help them navigate challenges and thrive. It covers topics such as self-care, stress management, and building resilience.

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