Trans and Nonbinary Student Experience Project

A circular graphic that highlights the domains of innovation for this project

This project builds on our partnership with the Sexual and Gender Diversity Office (SGDO) and previous project gathering feedback on the trans, nonbinary, and/or otherwise gender nonconforming student experience of filling out survey and form categories in UofT documentation. In this project, the Innovation will design and facilitate design thinking sessions in which we will share back what we heard and gather further insights from communities. The design thinking sessions will also include ideating how UofT can be more inclusive of trans and non-binary communities in key areas, including online environments, in-person group gatherings, and trans and non-binary inclusive student engagement.

Three icons of individuals connected by a circle, with a key in the middle.

Access for Every Student

All students have equitable access to programs, services, resources, and spaces.

'Join us and sign up! Trans and Nonbinary Student Experiences Feedback Sessions' Web Page

Research Team

Sabrina standing outside with the ocean in the background, wearing a colourful scarf

Sabrina Wu

Sofia Callaghan

Izzy Friesen

Serena Singh

Design Team & Communications Team

A photo of Kaitlyn smiling to the camera, with trees and buildings in the background

Kaitlyn Corlett

A photo of Akshay, who is wearing a grey suit standing infront of an off-grey background

Akshay Mahimtura

OUR FINDINGS:

This project begin in Summer 2021. Click the button below, or scroll down to learn more about the project.

Summer 2021

Summer 2021: What are the needs and experiences of trans, nonbinary and/or otherwise gender nonconforming students on University documents, surveys, and more?

Students are often queried by the University for their name and gender on items such as documentation, surveys, and more. While it may appear standard to include such queries, the standard form of name and gender categories also raise questions concerning the purpose of such identification and how it allows for—or does not—student self-determination. Through student consultation, the Sexual and Gender Diversity Office (SGDO) and the Innovation Hub partnered to gain a better understanding of trans, nonbinary, and/or otherwise gender nonconforming student communities’ identification needs and experiences, with particular consideration on the identification categories used on surveys and the Change of Name and Gender Request Form.