Monash University

Leader(s): Robyn Heckenberg

Offered

Gippsland Second semester 2009 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2009 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

The unit will critique notions of 'education as assimilation' and 'education for self-determination' and locate Aboriginal education within broader constructs of multicultural Australia. Issues such as culturally appropriate pedagogical practice and ownership of knowledge are also investigated, and provision is made for education practitioners to address practical problems faced in the classroom. Aboriginal education policies are explored examining the effects of non-indigenous education curriculum in Aboriginal communities with a view to assessing both its 'success' in terms of academic goals and outcomes, and its consequences for the maintenance of Aboriginal cultural values.

Objectives

On the successful completion of this unit students will have developed:

1. An understanding of the social, political and economic impact, that the current education system has on Indigenous Australians.

2. Students will have a working knowledge of education policies and practices and research methodologies and how they are perceived by Aboriginal people.

3. Students will also have developed an awareness of the value of the bi-cultural approach to a study of Indigenous education.

Additionally, they will have an understanding of the key concepts of 'Two Way Learning' and self-determination in the delivery of relevant education Curricula to Indigenous Australians.

4. Students will be able to locate relevant resources and assess the value of those resources and construct effective oral and written arguments on Indigenous education in Australia.

Assessment

Presentation and written summary (1000 words): 20%
Essay (1500 words): 35%
Exam (2 hours): 45%

Contact hours

3 hours (1 x 2 hour lecture and 1 x 1 hour tutorial) per week