GNDR 1071 - Introduction to LGBTQ+ Studies

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture 3 Lab None
Course Description: Introduction to LGBTQ+ Studies is an interdisciplinary introduction to the study of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and related/allied communities (LGBTQ+). The course explores the central concepts of sexual orientation and gender identity by examining the interconnections between the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, families, and communities and systems of privilege and oppression as they relate to LGBTQ+ individuals and culture in and around the world.  LGBTQ+-related activism and social movements are emphasized.
MnTC Goals
5 History/Social/Behavioral Science, 7 Human Diversity

Prerequisite(s): Course placement into college-level English and Reading OR completion of ENGL 0950  with a grade of C or higher OR completion of RDNG 0940  with a grade of C or higher and qualifying English Placement Exam OR completion of RDNG 0950  with a grade of C or higher and ENGL 0090  with a grade of C or higher OR completion of ESOL 0051  with a grade of C or higher and ESOL 0052  with a grade of C or higher.
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: None

Major Content

1. Definitions, terms, and language
2. LGBTQ+ history
3. Contemporary LGBTQ+ issues in social institutions, such as the family, education, religion, media and the law
4. Social construction of sex, gender, and sexuality
5. Systems of LGBTQ+-related privilege and oppression
6. Intersectionality
7. Visibility and repression
8. Theories of sexuality, gender, and identity development
9. Queer theory
10. LGBTQ+ communities and culture around the world
11. LGBTQ+ social movements
12. LGBTQ+-related activism

1. identify some of the landmark events and debates in LGBTQ+ history.
2. analyze theories of sexuality and identity development.
3. define key terms in the discipline.
4. explain cross-cultural variations in LGBTQ+ experiences around the world.
5. analyze the historical development and usage of language in the discipline.
6. analyze contemporary LGBTQ+ issues in social institutions and systems.
7. explain how sex, gender, and sexuality are constructed through social, cultural, and political discourses.
8. analyze systems of privilege and oppression in an intersectional way.
9. explain the connection between visibility and repression for LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.
10. describe LGBTQ+ social movements.
11. identify ways to engage in LGBTQ+ activism.
12. discuss examples of LGBTQ+-related activism.

05. 03. Use and critique alternative explanatory systems or theories.

05. 04. Develop and communicate alternative explanations or solutions for contemporary social issues.
Competency 2 (7-10)
07. 02. Demonstrate an awareness of the individual and institutional dynamics of unequal power relations between groups in contemporary society.

07. 03. Analyze their own attitudes, behaviors, concepts and beliefs regarding diversity, racism, and bigotry.

07. 04. Describe and discuss the experience and contributions (political, social, economic, etc.) of the many groups that shape American society and culture, in particular those groups that have suffered discrimination and exclusion.

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