Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

The unit provides students with an opportunity to consider the evolving character of Australia's external relations from the beginning of the twentieth century to the present. The initial focus is closely integrated with investigations of how Australia's traditional bonds with Britain and the US were influenced by Australia's insecurities about Asia. The unit will trace how these traditional fears and bonds have altered as Australia engaged more with Asia in response to the growth of regional trading blocs and a globalizing world economy. Australia's identity as a small nation state engaged in a post-colonial and rapidly changing world environment.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of the unit students will be able to demonstrate:

1. An understanding of the broad contours of Australia's external relations over the past century and the key assumptions that have underpinned Australian foreign and trade policies.
2. An understanding of the changing balance in Australia's relations between Great Britain, the US and the Asian region.
3. A knowledge of the changing perceptions of Australia among its traditional allies and within the Asian region.
4. An ability to critically evaluate topical debates about Australia's foreign and trade relations in a globalizing world economy.
5. An ability to conduct independent research.
6. An ability to write lucidly and with analytical depth. Third year students will be expected to demonstrate additional conceptual ability.

Assessment

Tutorial attendance and participation : 10%
Document/text analysis (1000 words) : 20%
Major essay (2000 words) : 30%
Examination (1.5 hrs) : 40%

Contact hours

3 hrs (1 x 2 hr lecture, 1 x1 hr tutorial)

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Politics
Australian studies