EDN4406

Social education: cultural studies B

Dr J Edwards

8 points - 3 hours per week - Second semester - Peninsula

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should have developed knowledge and understanding about the origins of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander society as evidenced by the Dreaming; indigenous people's beliefs; the complexity and diversity of pre-invasion indigenous society; the impact and consequences of the European invasion on the lives of indigenous people in the past and present with a focus on their experience and interpretation of Australia's history as evidenced by their oral traditions and accounts of contemporary indigenous historians and writers; contemporary issues and concerns focused on initiatives developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and by government to address them. Students should have engaged in learning experiences which enable them to appreciate the cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their history and continuing contribution to Australian society; see the place of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander studies and perspectives in the primary curriculum; develop confidence in their ability to plan, teach and evaluate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander studies programs.

Synopsis This subject provides students with crosscultural knowledge which will allow them to develop curricula for Aboriginal studies and Torres Strait Islander studies in primary social education. Emphasis will be placed on the way in which culture is shaped by the physical environment from which it emanated; how historical events have helped shape culture; how Aboriginal culture and Torres Strait Islander culture have changed in response to the arrival of foreign cultures and people; valuing the heritage of indigenous people and their historic and continuing contributions to Australian society.

Assessment Seminar paper (2000 words equivalent) and tutorial presentation: 30% - Research assignment (4000 words): 70%

Recommended texts

Blomfield G Baal belbora: The end of the dancing Alternative Publishing Co., 1986
Edwards C and Read R (eds) The lost children Doubleday, 1989
Singe J The Torres Strait UQP, 1989
Rowley C D The destruction of Aboriginal society Penguin, 1970
Reynolds H Aborigines and settlers Cassell, 1972
Wilmot E Pemulway: The rainbow warrior Weldons, 1987

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