Introduction to Koorie society
AA BT BW DT AW BV BB BS BL BU GA PA BC BP BDT BJ BY
Marlene Drysdale
Subject value of 1.0 (6 points) * 4 hours per week * First semester * Gippsland (Associate Diploma of Koorie Studies students only)/Distance
This subject is divided into four sections. It commences with a definition of who is a Koorie and the state of race relations in Australia. The structure of traditional Koorie society is then examined. This section concentrates upon the centrality and importance of Dreaming systems of belief. Other aspects of traditional Koorie society which are examined include the maintenance of social order, the role of ceremonies and rites, and the division of labour. The third section of the subject examines the nature of frontier conflict and how the white settlement affected Koorie society. In particular we will focus upon the role of the missions and repressive legislation. The final section of the subject concentrates upon the contemporary issues which confront Koories. The importance of land rights, the impact of the white legal system upon Koories, health and housing issues and the drafting of a treaty between Koories and the Australian Government will all be considered. It is intended to utilise opportunities to make field trips (internal students) and to have members of the Koorie community as guest lecturers.
Assessment: ADKS students
Essay one (1000 words): 30% * Essay two (1000 words): 30% * Overview essay (1500 words): 40%
Assessment: Distance students
Essay one (1500 words): 30% * Journal one: 35% * Journal two: 35%
Prescribed text
Edwards W E (ed.) Traditional Aboriginal society - a reader Macmillan, 1987