Queer Voices: Learning from Experiences of Queer-Spectrum and Trans-Spectrum University Students
Presentation
Overview
Overview
Description
This study explores queer-spectrum and trans-spectrum students’ voices on establishing a sense of belonging in the classroom. Focusing on social justice issues, such as gender and inequality, is a hallmark of our combined 40 years of teaching and research. This study contributes to a growing body of research on the experience of queer-spectrum and trans-spectrum students in higher education institutions. In collaboration with the university’s LGBTQ Center, we secured funding to support two queer identifying students to interview 25 students and alumni at a public research university. We found that the incorporation of small gestures by faculty have a significant impact on fostering a sense of belonging. Changes like instructors taking the time to include preferred pronouns in email signatures, include language regarding anti-discrimination in course syllabi, intentionally including a diverse set of scholars in course materials, constructing a welcome statement aimed at establishing a safe space for queer-spectrum and trans-spectrum students, signal to students that they are an ally. As white, cisgender females motivated to build a welcoming environment for all students, it is our responsibility to support our queer and trans-spectrum students through research and evidence-based pedagogy.
