KRS4020

Theoretical perspectives in Koorie culture and history

Liz Reed

12 points
* 2- 3 hours per week
* Second semester
* Clayton

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, candidates should have developed an understanding of the importance of Koorie culture to Australian society, government and institutions; developed an awareness of the need for sensitivity in the study of Koorie history and culture; developed an understanding of the nature of the struggle against oppression fought by both individuals and groups within the Koorie community; developed an ability to critically examine the way in which the structure and settings of Australian institutions have impacted upon the Koorie community; showed an understanding of the complex theoretical, cultural, historical and contemporary issues, discourses and problems in constructing indigenous studies; demonstrated an ability to research, analyse and communicate effectively and to a high level in both written and oral forms.

Synopsis This subject will cover the following topics of research and its place in Koorie studies: the historical and anthropological comparative discourse of Koorie cultures prior to colonisation; the examination of the Koorie struggle for the recognition of Australian indigines; the theorectical and institutional settings and practices which have impacted upon the Koorie community and the way in which the Koorie community has shaped community thought, institutional practices and settings within Australian society.

Assessment Seminar presentation (3000 words): 30%
* Long paper - special subject (6000 words): 70%

Recommended texts

Attwood B A life together, a life apart: A history of relations between Europeans and Aborigines MUP, 1994
Berndt R and Berndt C End of an era AIAS, 1987
Brennan F Sharing the country Penguin, 1991
Broome R Aboriginal Australians Allen and Unwin, 1982
Coombs H C Aboriginal autonomy: Issues and strategies CUP, 1994
Fletcher C H Aboriginal self-determination in Australia Aboriginal Studies Press, 1994
Markus A Australian race relations 1788-1993 Allen and Unwin, 1994
Miller J Koorie: A will to win Angus and Robertson, 1985
Povinelli E A Labor's lot: The power, history and culture of Australian action U Chicago P, 1993
Reynolds H With the white people: Documentation on Koorie/Aboriginal contribution to the Australian economy Penguin, 1990
Rintoul S The wailing: A national black oral history Heinemann, 1993