EDF6236

Language, society and cultural difference ( 12 points, SCA Band 0, 0.250 EFTSL)

Leader: Assoc Prof L Farrell

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2006 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2006 (Evening)
Clayton Second semester 2006 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2006 (Evening)

Synopsis: The role of English language education in Australian society, historically and currently. Concepts of ethnicity, processes of racialisation, and the roles of gender and class in Australia. Policies and practices relating to immigration and cultural difference. The ways historical, political and policy contexts shape, and are shaped by, language and literacy practices. Literacy and social and cultural difference in school and workplace education, the role of language in formal and informal assessment processes and the political and social implications of the globalisation of English.

Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, students should have developed an understanding of language as social, cultural and political practice; the social, historical and political contexts in which language is shaped in contemporary Australian society and the implications for education and training in a range of learning environments including primary, secondary and higher education, workplaces and community settings.

Assessment: Literature review (2500 words):30% + Group presentation (2500 words equivalent):30% + Research essay (3500 words):40%.

Contact Hours: 3 hours per week