AIS3170 - Australian Indigenous Women

Leader: Robyn Heckenberg

Offered

Gippsland First semester 2007 (Day)
Gippsland First semester 2007 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

Australian Indigenous Women examines the roles of women in traditional society as well as the significant role they have played in colonial society. The unit examines common stereotypes that Indigenous women have sought to disarm. There is discussion on discourses which involve Indigenous and Black women and feminism. Representations of Indigenous women in film, the theatre and literature. Self-representations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women as presented in art and photography movements. The role played by Indigenous women in Australia in politics and black women's voices. Common threads which run through Indigenous women in Australia and other countries.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will:
1. Be familiar with the issues central to the lives of contemporary Indigenous women; 2. Have a clear overview of the historical implications of colonization and the impacts that colonization had on Indigenous women, including stereotyping; 3. Understand the effects of government policy on the lives of Indigenous women and their families; 4. See the similarities for Indigenous women internationally and the changes they have and do face.
At level 3 students will show greater analytical strengths in the discussion of issues concerning Indigenous women.

Assessment

Journal: 10%
Class presentation (1200 words): 15%
Essay (3000 words): 75%
OCL students will be part of on-line discussion group with interactive participation in place of the Class presentation.
Third year students will be expected to demonstrate greater skills of analysis as well as demonstrating a broader range of reading.

Contact hours

2 hours per week

Prerequisites

AIS1010 or AIS1011 and AIS1040 or AIS1012

Prohibitions

AIS2070, AIS3070, AIS2170