AIS2170

Australian Indigenous Women ( 6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Robyn Heckenberg

Offered:
Not offered in 2005.

Synopsis: The unit focuses on theoretical and cultural issues involved in studying Australian Aboriginal women: 'traditional' roles of Aboriginal women and their place in the colonial economy; European constructions of Aboriginal women's sexuality; the place of Aboriginal women in the state and nation; Aboriginal women and feminism; media constructions and stereotypes of Aboriginal women; representations of Aboriginal women in film; present needs and future prospects, and comparisons with Maori and South African women.

Objectives: Upon completion of this unit students should have: 1. Gained an understanding of the roles of Australian Aboriginal women historically and in their communities today, and of the ways in which academic knowledge of Aboriginal women has been constructed. 2. Developed an awareness of the value of interdisciplinary approaches to a study of this kind, and of the importance of Aboriginal oral testimonies, as well as the uses of film and other media in the study of Australian Aboriginal women.

Assessment: Class project (1500 words): 25% + Research Essay (3000 words): 75%

Contact Hours: 2 hours per week

Prerequisites: AIS1010 or AIS1011 and AIS1040 or AIS1012

Prohibitions: AIS2070, AIS3070, AIS3170