Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit aims to explore the ways that language, society and cultural difference relate to each other and why it matters to educators working in schools, universities, technical colleges, other relevant workplaces and having policy roles around the world. It covers concepts of language, culture, identity, and difference; English language education in global contexts and the political and social implications of the globalisation of English; policies and practices relating to immigration and cultural difference in multiple contexts; the ways historical, political and policy contexts shape and are shaped by language and literacy practices; literacy and social and cultural difference in school, higher education and workplace education; the role of language in formal and informal assessment and in curriculum development processes.

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

Essay (literature review) (3,000 words): 30%
Research essay (5,000 words): 70%.

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Ha Phan

Contact hours

3 hours per week