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Introduction: Why Learn About Gender and Sexual Diversity in Schools?

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Gender and Sexual Diversity in Schools

Part of the book series: Explorations of Educational Purpose ((EXEP,volume 10))

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Abstract

This chapter introduces the reader to the many issues schools are facing that relate to gender and sexual diversity. This chapter presents a brief overview of some of the main topics including bullying and harassment, diversity and equity, sexual and emotional health, positive school climates, and academic success. It also presents some related educational theories and situates how the theoretical foundations of each argue for inclusive discussions of gender and sexual diversity. The following educational philosophies are introduced: democratic, critical pedagogy, multicultural, social justice, feminist, anti-oppressive, and queer. Finally, the chapter gives examples from the curriculum, extracurricular activities, and school design to show how sexual and gender diversity are already present in schools, but generally not addressed in positive or inclusive ways.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    I am using the abbreviation BGLQT in this book, however you may also see written as GLBT, LGBT, or GLB. I have chosen to list the letters in alphabetical order since many groups feel that the order of the letters may indicate a priority being placed on the issues of gay men and/or lesbians. In the spirit of equality, I have opted to use alphabetical order: BGLQT. In other parts of this volume, you may see only LGB which indicates that transgender people or the term “queer” were not addressed in that particular study or publication.

  2. 2.

    I use the term “trans” here to refer to multiple identities that challenge the sex and gender binary: transgender, transsexual, and transformed

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  1. Dept. of Education, Concordia University, 1455 de Maissonneuve Blvd. W., LB 581, QC, H3G 1M8, Montreal, Canada

    Prof. Elizabeth J. Meyer

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Meyer, E.J. (2010). Introduction: Why Learn About Gender and Sexual Diversity in Schools?. In: Gender and Sexual Diversity in Schools. Explorations of Educational Purpose, vol 10. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-8559-7_1

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