What does it mean to be Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming? A MOOC on Diversity and Inclusion

Rebecca Graetz

University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Keywords: Transgender, Diversity, Inclusion, MOOC


Abstract

The University of Minnesota is working in partnership with Coursera designing a MOOC titled “What does it Mean to Identify as Transgender?: A MOOC on Diversity and Inclusion.” Coursera accepted this MOOC as part of their Educational Social Impact campaign, which will be launched in June 2017. Coursera offers all its courses accessible and free. This MOOC aims to increase awareness in regard to the unique challenges faced by the transgender and gender-nonconforming communities, in addition to providing a general resource for people who may have questions about how to discuss gender identity, the process of transitioning, or changing social dynamics. In light of recent high-profile individuals coming out as transgender as well as media coverage of antitransgender legislation, this course will be a timely overview that will promote a sense of empathy, curiosity, and compassion. Structurally, the MOOC will be composed of five modules featuring original video content, curated media, readings, and additional resources exploring a central theme. Each module will feature a short quiz evaluating comprehension of major themes. This presentation with go through the process for approval, how the MOOC was developed including video content, and how the MOOC will be used for future research.

The University of Minnesota Medical School, in collaboration with online learning system Coursera, has developed a free course to help individuals learn more about transgender and gender non-conforming people. 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.

This course was developed under the Joycelyn Elders Chair in Sexual Health Education at the University of Minnesota Medical School.

Related URL: https://www.sexualhealth.umn.edu/


Author Biography

Rebecca Graetz, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Rebecca Graetz, EdD, is currently an Instructional Designer at the University of Minnesota working for the Medical School: Department of Family Medicine and Community Health: Program in Human Sexuality. She has expertise in distance education as well as accessibility and inclusion for all in higher education.