Online education, queer activism and social networks

Francis, D. A. (2022) Online education, queer activism and social networks. In: Francis, D.A. (ed.) Queer Activism in South African Education. Taylor & Francis, pp. 90-109. ISBN 9781003187295 (doi: 10.4324/9781003187295-5)

Abstract

Reliable online information about gender and sexuality diversity is an important resource for LGBTIQI youth. Queer and Transgender Organizations, in addition to more traditional forms of media activism such as pamphlets, press statements, exhibitions and posters, also use the internet as a platform for information and communication. This chapter reviews relevant documents from various Queer and Transgender Organizations online platforms to explore what internet-based information and support they might offer LGBTIQ youth about gender and sexuality diversity. Just to be clear, this chapter is not about policing the boundaries of what is excluded or missing on the organization's website but reviews and analyses the online tools and information to propose a research agenda for future work in this area. The findings highlight that Queer and Transgender Organizations have a visible web presence that provides LGBTIQ youth with information, resources and support in four vital directions – health and psychosocial, curricular and pedagogy, homophobia and transphobia intervention and research and advocacy. While not the magic bullet, in the absence of teaching and learning that pays attention to gender and sexuality diversity, Queer and Transgender organization websites demonstrate commitment to raising awareness, sharing information and knowledge about LGBTIQ identities and interrupting homophobia and transphobia.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Francis, Professor Dennis
• Authors: Francis, D. A.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Education
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis
• ISBN: 9781003187295

Related URLs

• University of Glasgow Library Catalogue