Overview

This week we will discuss topics surrounding sex, gender, and sexism and dive into how these intersect with other identities and oppressions in our society. In addition, we will explore complex and interrelated concepts that affect individuals and societies as they pertain to gender and sexism. We will revisit social constructionism and meaning-making and delve into how these influence our understandings of sex and gender in culture.

Module Objectives

In this module, the activities, content, and assignments will guide your learning process to ensure you can:

Define Sex and Gender: Understand the biological differences that typically define sex (male, female, intersex) and the social and cultural aspects of gender (masculine, feminine, non-binary). Recognize how sex and gender intersect and influence each other.

Explore Gender Identity and Expression: Learn about the spectrum of gender identities beyond the binary (male and female) framework, including non-binary, transgender, genderqueer, and other identities. Understand the concepts of gender expression and the societal norms related to gender roles.

Analyze the Social Construction of Gender: Examine how society and culture shape perceptions of gender roles and expectations, and how these constructs affect individual behavior and societal structures.

Understand Sexism and Gender Discrimination: Identify and analyze the forms and mechanisms of sexism, including systemic, institutional, and interpersonal discrimination based on gender. Understand the impact of sexism on opportunities, rights, and personal interactions.

Study Intersectionality in the Context of Gender: Recognize how gender intersects with other social categories such as race, ethnicity, class, sexual orientation, age, and disability, leading to complex layers of discrimination and privilege.

Examine Historical and Cultural Variations of Gender: Explore how different cultures and historical periods have understood and structured gender roles differently, including matriarchal societies and gender-fluid cultures.

Module To-Do List

Here's everything you need to do and remember for this module:

Complete all readings and view all required videos
Complete Discussion assignment
Infographic assignment not due but check out some infographic examples
Complete the assignment Story of Self