What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)? from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces the foundational concepts of gender identity, making it suitable for beginners or individuals with a general curiosity about the topic

Emphasizes inclusivity and aims to help learners create safe and supportive spaces for transgender and gender nonconforming individuals

Includes first-person narratives, enhancing the understanding of daily experiences and perspectives of transgender and gender nonconforming individuals

Examines the process of gender affirmation throughout different life stages

Provides a comprehensive overview of history and culture related to transgender and gender nonconforming individuals

Analyzes societal disparities and public policy issues faced by transgender and gender nonconforming individuals in healthcare, employment, and other areas

Reviews summary

Informative transgender course

Learners say that this informative course provides an insightful look at what it means to identify as transgender or gender non-conforming. Students appreciate the real hands-on experiences, videos, readings, and range of opinions. Reviews note that this course includes peer-graded assignments, but learners have experienced issues with grading. Some students have also reported non-functioning links and outdated material in this comprehensive course that covers many different areas impacting the TGNC community.

The course covers a wide range of topics.

"Great course for awareness. Eye opening and informative!"

"I found this course insightful and incredibly helpful."

"This course is very important and informative."

Some of the course material is outdated.

"videos were poorly made and not worth watching, all in all the course was a waste of my time."

"In an area of great changes 10 year old articles are now historical."

"Many things are from 8-10 years ago."

Students have mixed reviews about the peer-graded assignments.

"The course is good, but peer graded assignments are not. You can't get a course certificate until someone reviews your assignment. If no one reviews it, you can't earn a certificate."

"There was a lot of content. A lot was repetitive. The class is a mix of around 75% outside reading material and videos, and 25% original content."

"Having a final assignment that was peer graded seemed ridiculous, but I did it, put some thought into it and was given a 3/7, therefore not passing and having to resubmit it."

Some of the links in the course do not work.

"some links were outdated, but most could be found by searching for description of link"

"The content is good; but the videos are not great quality and many links are now dead."

"Very good information, but many of the links to articles or videos were not able to be found."

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 What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)? with these activities:

Practice using inclusive language and pronouns

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Improve your communication skills by practicing the use of inclusive language and correct pronouns for TGNC individuals.

Browse courses on Inclusive Language

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Become familiar with the correct pronouns for different gender identities.
Incorporate inclusive language into your vocabulary.
Engage in conversations with others where you practice using inclusive language.

Join a virtual support group for TGNC individuals

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Connect with other TGNC individuals, share experiences, and provide mutual support in a safe and welcoming environment.

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Search for online support groups or forums.
Introduce yourself and share your experiences.
Participate actively in discussions and offer support to others.

Compile digital stories

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Gather a collection of personal narratives that provide firsthand accounts of the challenges and triumphs of TGNC individuals.

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Search for relevant online platforms or archives.
Identify and download stories that resonate with you.
Organize the stories into a cohesive narrative.

Five other activities

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Complete online tutorials on transgender health

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Expand your knowledge of transgender healthcare options and best practices by completing online tutorials and resources from reputable sources.

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Identify reputable healthcare organizations or online platforms.
Select tutorials that cover topics relevant to your interests.
Take notes and complete any suggested exercises.

Volunteer at a local LGBTQ+ support organization

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Gain practical experience and contribute to the support of TGNC individuals by volunteering your time at an LGBTQ+ organization.

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Identify local LGBTQ+ support organizations in your area.
Inquire about volunteer opportunities that align with your skills and interests.
Commit to a regular volunteer schedule.

Read 'Transgender History' by Susan Stryker

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of the history of transgender and gender nonconforming communities and their contributions to society.

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Read each chapter thoroughly.
Take notes on key concepts and events.
Engage with online discussions or forums related to the book.

Develop a social media campaign

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Design a social media campaign that promotes awareness, understanding, and inclusivity for TGNC individuals.

Browse courses on Social Media Campaigns

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Define your target audience and campaign objectives.
Create engaging content that aligns with your message.
Select appropriate social media platforms and channels.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of your campaign.

Design an inclusive space plan for your workplace or school

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Develop a plan to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for TGNC individuals within your workplace or school setting.

Browse courses on Workplace Diversity

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Assess the current level of inclusivity in your organization.
Identify areas where improvements can be made.
Develop specific action steps and initiatives.
Present your plan to decision-makers and advocate for its implementation.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the plan.

Career center

Learners who complete What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)? will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Policy Analyst

A Policy Analyst studies, develops, and evaluates government policies. They provide research, analysis, and recommendations to policymakers. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' is helpful to a Policy Analyst as it provides a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the TGNC population. This knowledge can inform policy recommendations that aim to create more inclusive and equitable policies.

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Diversity and Inclusion Manager

A Diversity and Inclusion Manager develops and implements diversity and inclusion initiatives within an organization. They work to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all employees. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Diversity and Inclusion Manager as it provides a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them develop more effective diversity and inclusion initiatives.

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Consultant

A Consultant provides advice and expertise to businesses and organizations. They may work in a variety of areas, such as management, marketing, and finance. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Consultant as it provides a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them provide more informed and effective advice to their clients.

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Social Worker

A Social Worker helps people cope with personal and social problems. They provide counseling, support, and resources. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Social Worker as it provides a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them better serve TGNC clients.

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Researcher

A Researcher conducts research on a variety of topics. They may work in academia, government, or the private sector. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Researcher as it provides a deep understanding of the latest research on the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them design and conduct more effective research studies.

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Community Organizer

A Community Organizer works to improve the lives of people in a community. They may work on issues such as housing, education, and health care. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Community Organizer as it provides a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them develop and implement more effective community organizing strategies.

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Nonprofit Manager

A Nonprofit Manager oversees the operations of a nonprofit organization. They develop and implement programs, manage staff, and raise funds. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Nonprofit Manager as it provides a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them create more inclusive and supportive organizations.

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Educator

An Educator teaches students in a variety of settings. They develop lesson plans, deliver instruction, and assess student learning. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to an Educator as it provides a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them create more inclusive and supportive learning environments.

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Lawyer

A Lawyer represents clients in legal matters. They may work in a variety of areas, such as criminal law, civil law, and family law. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Lawyer as it provides a deep understanding of the legal issues facing the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them better represent their clients.

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Journalist

A Journalist reports on news and events. They may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or television stations. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Journalist as it provides a deep understanding of the unique experiences of the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them report on these issues in a more informed and accurate way.

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Activist

An Activist works to promote social change. They may work on issues such as poverty, discrimination, and human rights. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to an Activist as it provides a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them develop more effective advocacy strategies.

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Social Justice Advocate

A Social Justice Advocate works to promote social justice and equality. They may work on issues such as poverty, discrimination, and human rights. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Social Justice Advocate as it provides a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them develop more effective advocacy strategies.

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Health Care Provider

A Health Care Provider provides medical care to patients. They may work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Health Care Provider as it provides a deep understanding of the unique health care needs of the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them provide more informed and compassionate care.

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Human Resources Manager

A Human Resources Manager oversees the human resources department of an organization. They recruit, hire, and train employees, and develop and implement HR policies. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Human Resources Manager as it provides a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them create more inclusive and supportive workplaces.

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Public Health Worker

A Public Health Worker promotes the health of a community. They may work in a variety of settings, such as schools, clinics, and community centers. The course 'What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?' may be useful to a Public Health Worker as it provides a deep understanding of the unique health needs of the TGNC population. This knowledge can help them develop and implement more effective public health programs.

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