Multicultural education
BP BC GD PD
Subject value 1.0 * 3 hours at each weekend school * First semester * Gippsland/Distance
This subject aims to help students to be aware of the multicultural nature of the Australian society and the issues surrounding the idea of cultural diversity in society; to understand and be able to assist pupils from different cultural backgrounds as well as to prepare them for education in a multicultural society. Topics covered include ethnic, cultural and linguistic diversity in Australian society; different social approaches to cultural diversity and the role of education in a multicultural society; mother-tongue maintenance and second-language learning; review of education programs and resource materials that may be described as contributing to a culturally diverse but socially cohesive nation-state. The subject is taught by study guides, videos, lectures, selected readings and seminars at weekend schools. Students may choose an optional two-week study tour of Singapore and Malaysia during the September school holidays with a report during second semester. Students interested in taking this option should contact the subject adviser.
Assessment
Two essays: 30% each * One project: 40%
Prescribed texts
Banks JA and Banks CA (eds) Multicultural education: Issues and perspectives Allyn and Bacon, 1989
Foster L E Diversity and multicultural education: A sociological perspective Allen and Unwin, 1988