GLSEN Research Learning Series: Spring 2013 Webinars

Completed webinars from Spring Learning Series

Out of the Classroom: LGBT Students' Participation in Sports and Extracurricular Activities
DATE: Wednesday, February 20th
TIME: 4-5pm ET

This webinar discussed LGBT students' participation and leadership in extracurricular activities, such as athletics, arts, student government, and supportive student clubs such as Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs), highlighting findings from GLSEN's 2011 National School Climate Survey. We specifically explored the benefits of participating in GSAs and discuss the barriers to GSA formation and participation that some LGBT students encounter. We also discussed findings from our recently released research brief on the experiences of LGBT student athletes, including the academic and mental health benefits related to participation in school-based athletics, as well as barriers to sports participation such as experiences of harassment and assault while playing sports. Finally, we recommended strategies for educators and advocates of LGBT youth to address the needs of LGBT students around extracurricular activities.

Gender Identity and Expression in the Classroom: The Experiences of Gender Nonconforming and Transgender Students in School
DATE: Wednesday, January 16th
TIME: 4-5pm ET

This webinar discussed the role that gender expression plays in the school experiences of LGBT students and the attitudes and experiences of gender nonconforming and transgender students in school. Highlighting findings from several GLSEN research surveys, we examined gender nonconformity issues for younger students in elementary school and discussed the prevalence of a hostile school climate for gender nonconforming and transgender youth in secondary school. We discussed educators' attitudes, efforts, and responses regarding gender nonconformity and transgender student issues. Finally, we highlighted critical resources for students and strategies for educators and advocates to create safer and more affirming schools.

View past research webinars in our Learning Series Archives