6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
Faculty
Chief examiner(s)
Coordinator(s)
Sarah Rutherford
(Clayton)
Paul Swan
(Peninsula)
Unit guides
Synopsis
This unit inquires into the challenges of achieving equity in schooling and education in diverse social and cultural contexts. It critically engages with a combination of sociological theory, contemporary policy documents and accounts of innovative practice in schools and communities to explore the ways in which curriculum and teaching and learning strategies can be ethically responsive to centralised government policy and local and community needs. International policy developments and trends in multicultural education are examined, as well as local, state and national responses. Cultural, linguistic, religious, socioeconomic, intellectual and physical differences among all students are studied in relation to creating equitable and inclusive learning environments. The unit builds understanding of the histories, cultures and identities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and explores how this understanding in educators can productively contribute to experiences of schooling for all young Australians.
Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this unit students should be able to:
- interpret a range of education policy developments and educational research that relates to schooling and equity in local, national and global contexts
- critically explore the ways in which curriculum and teaching and learning strategies can be ethically responsive to centralised government policy and local and community needs
- appreciate the many dimensions and experiences of difference in young people's experiences of schooling in Australia and internationally
- demonstrate an understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and identities and apply this understanding in their work as educators
- reflect critically on themselves as educators and the strategies they will use for engaging diverse learners.
Fieldwork
For students who commenced the course prior to 2014: 5 days
Assessment
Knowledge building task through completion of a blog (2000 words equivalent, 50%)
Research paper (2000 words, 50%)
Workload requirements
Minimum total expected workload equals 144 hours per semester comprising:
- Contact hours for on-campus students:
- 2 contact hours per week
- Additional requirements
- 10 hours of independent study per week
See also Unit timetable information