Queer Pedagogies

Queer and trans theory value a multitude of knowledges that help illuminate the invisible structures of society by examining the body, identity, failure, and change. Through exploration of key texts and methods of queer and trans life, the aim is to create larger spaces for living and learning. In a political moment that seeks to create ever-more rigid public spaces and sentiments, we ask how can we use the analyses and methods of queer/trans studies to care for our students, destabilize patriarchal, hetero-, and cis-normative structures in the classroom, and make space to thrive?

This is a Focused Inquiry Group, led by TLC Fellow Danielle Bennett, for students of all genders and sexualities to consider the guidance of queer and trans theorists and practitioners that we can take into our classrooms to create compassionate, engaged, and resilient class experiences. In this focused inquiry group, participants will read some classic texts and consider what “queering” or “transing” knowledge can bring to your classroom and will take inspiration from scholars and activists that found ways to create joy and thrive despite restrictive or hostile circumstances. These efforts will culminate in a reflective and portable project that can be shared and iterated on with others.

Participants will be paid a $500 stipend.

 

Eligibility
To be a currently enrolled Graduate Center student.

 

Requirements
FIG participants will meet once a month throughout the Spring 2026 semester. At least three meetings will be in person. Meeting dates will be determined based on group members’ schedules. By the end of the semester, participants will produce a collaboratively determined set of public-facing artifacts (such as a tool-kit, a Visible Pedagogy blog series, or a themed set of additions to the TLC Assignment Library) on the topic.]

 

How To Apply
Email a single PDF to tlc@gc.cuny.edu by Monday, November 3, 2025.
Name your file: LastName_QPFIG25.pdf

This document should contain:

• A two-page CV.
• A short paragraph response (300-500 words) to the following prompt:
  • What might “queering” your classroom look like?
  • Have you ever used queer or trans methods in your teaching or research?

If you have questions, please contact Danielle Bennett at dbennett@gradcenter.cuny.edu