“The behavior of a human being in sexual matters is often a prototype for the whole of his other modes of reaction in life.”
Sigmund Freud
Jonathan Alexander’s “Out of the Closet and Into the Network: Sexual Orientation and the Computerized Classroom.”
Post-reading thoughts
- Why should teachers and students of writing consider sexuality in a networked classroom?
- Alexander argues that a composition class, especially a computerized course, would be the ideal forum to discuss a controversial topic such as sexual orientation.
- Alexander does not provide an in-depth study like Shepherd does. How could his piece have benefited from a structure like Shepherd’s?
- Though there is not an in-depth study like in the Shepherd article, he does describe his experiences with this discussion topic in his own classrooms. Perhaps a more in-depth study could make his argument that much stronger, but I feel as if he showed his audience that discussing the topic of sexual orientation in composition classes does help students think critically about others’ point of view and the social implications of societal influences.
- How is his argument kairotic?
- In the previous year a Colorado Amendment was overturned; one that would disempower homosexuals in the state to dispute discrimination due to sexual orientation in housing and employment. (207) Therefore, gay rights was a hot topic of conversation, especially in the state of Colorado where he was teaching at the time.
- What is his exigence?
- Alexander argues that the ideal forum for controversial topic discussions would be a computerized composition class. Though his article focuses on the topic of sexual orientation and the social implications thereof, his main point was that allowing students to communicate via an online network could increase participation and decrease fear of negative repercussions to voiced ideas. At the time this article was written, gay rights was becoming a hotly discussed topic around the country and across various fields of study. “In addition to its contemporary socio-political relevance and its ability to excite class discussion, sexual orientation is a subject that engages many students’ interest at more personal levels,” (208) meaning Alexander feels this particular topic is not only relevant in the political arenas, but it also elicits personal responses from students which, in turn, usually indicate more in-depth discussions. Ultimately, Alexander is trying to express another way to utilize technology to benefit both students’ writing and critical thinking skills and the impact of society influences.
- How might his identity shape his argument?
- Alexander identifies as a homosexual, and he in article he speaks about how the potential pit-falls he experiences as an openly gay professor. I think his own journey and sexual orientation largely shaped his argument. One, it is a topic that is highly personal, so he likely has a high interest in the topic and assisting other students in the same situation. He believes that his identity as a homosexual can also help the heterosexual students in his class; as he can help them to see the world from a new perspective that may not personally affect their lives. Two, being of previous generations, and knowing the history of discrimination in this country towards homosexuals, it is logical to assume he himself went through a lot of the perils he expects his students to be dealing with in their personal lifes. Having such a personal connection to the topic allows him to have more insight and expertise in the delicate intricacies of discussion sexual orientation in an academic setting.
Summary – What is is really about?
In Jonathan Alexander argues in his 1997 Computers and Composition article, “Out of the Closet and Into the Network: Sexual Orientation and the Computerized Classroom,” that computerized composition classrooms are the ideal forum for discussing controversial topics such as sexual identity. He articulates that the potential anonymity of network software provides students the safe, open platform on which students can comfortably engage in discourse with each other in. “It is at exactly this perilous point that computerized classrooms offer the possibility of discussions of homosexuality that will (a) allow gays and lesbians the opportunity to speak and (b) allow them to opportunity to speak safely.” (2010)
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In Black and Write 
I found your post very interesting and well thought through. I agree that adding a study would strongly enhance the effects of his argument because he would have proof to go hand and hand with his experience.
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Hello! This summary, even though confined by a word count, was quite intricate. You especially caught my eye with his kairos, as I did not know that at the time. How interesting! Very good job!
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I like that you brought up the amendment that was overturned. It was brought up right at the beginning of the article, yet I had quickly forgotten how this lead to so much conversation in his classroom. I also like your point of him being in an older generation than his students, therefore he has experienced and seen much more when it comes to his identity. I wouldn’t have thought of it like that.
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I appreciate how you included the notion that networked classrooms provide a safe environment for students to express themselves. I also appreciate how you included the socio-political environment of the time, which influenced Alexander’s point of view.
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(In response to the Alexander piece)
Alexander’s exigence is highly convincing and relevant, and I think that composition classes are uniquely equipped to deal with more complex issues, due to the interpersonal dialogue that occurs in them.
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