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

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/tgnc-gender-identity-social-change

Introduction

### Course Review: What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)? In a world that is increasingly acknowledging the diverse spectrum of gender identity, Coursera's course titled "What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?" offers a comprehensive and insightful look into the nuances of gender identity, the experiences of TGNC individuals, and the societal dynamics that shape their realities. Developed under the esteemed Joycelyn Elders Chair in Sexual Health Education at the University of Minnesota, the course stands out for its depth, engagement, and educational value. #### Course Overview The course is tailored for individuals curious about gender identity and those eager to understand the unique challenges faced by TGNC populations. It explores the nature of gender, the process of gender affirmation, and the ever-evolving social dynamics that affect TGNC individuals. Participants will gain valuable insights into creating inclusive environments across various spheres of life, whether personal, professional, or communal. The curriculum is built around dynamic multimedia content, including original video lectures, readings, and engaging discussions. Each module challenges participants to reflect on their knowledge and encourage active participation through quizzes and discussion forums, fostering an enriching learning experience. #### Syllabus Highlights 1. **Introduction to Gender Identity**: This foundational module debunks the male-female binary, inviting learners to explore the broad spectrum of gender identity. It's a crucial starting point that sets the stage for deeper discussions throughout the course. 2. **Digital Stories**: This module offers a unique collection of first-person narratives that depict the daily lives of TGNC individuals. These stories are invaluable for promoting empathy and understanding, allowing participants to gain insight into the real challenges and victories that TGNC individuals experience. 3. **Understanding the Process of Gender Affirmation**: Gender affirmation is presented as a lifelong journey, emphasizing that each individual’s path is uniquely theirs. This content is particularly relevant for anyone seeking to understand both the emotional and practical aspects of gender transition. 4. **History and Culture**: This section highlights the significant contributions of TGNC individuals throughout history, transcending disciplinary boundaries from advocacy to sports. It also critically examines media portrayals, enhancing participants' awareness of representation issues. 5. **Society and Public Policy in the United States**: A pivotal module that discusses current issues affecting TGNC individuals, such as "Bathroom Bills" and military participation. It analyzes societal disparities and lays the groundwork for understanding the intersection of public policy and individual rights. 6. **Creating Inclusive Spaces**: The concluding module empowers participants with actionable strategies to foster inclusivity. It encourages taking tangible steps toward allyship and promoting understanding in various environments—from workplaces to schools. #### Recommendations This course is highly recommended for anyone—regardless of their background—interested in delving into the complexities of gender identity and garnering the tools needed to support TGNC individuals in their communities. Whether you are an educator, a healthcare professional, a student, or simply an individual seeking to deepen your understanding of gender diversity, this course provides an excellent resource. One of the course's strengths lies in its balance of academic rigor and accessible content. The diverse multimedia approach, combined with engaging discussions, ensures that participants are not merely passive recipients of information but active learners who can reflect on their own experiences and biases. In conclusion, "What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?" is more than an educational course—it's a call to expand our understanding and create a world that is inclusive and affirming of all gender identities. Enroll today and take the first step toward becoming an informed ally and advocate for TGNC individuals!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.