ATS1945 · Issues in Australian politics and government

Overview

In this unit you will explore the politics, government and key issues that challenge the Australian liberal democratic state. You will undertake study of the key theoretical issues and debates in Australian politics and governance and interrogate ideas about power that underpin them. Topics covered include: political ideologies, Australian political thought; democracy; voting behaviour; the media; gender and sexuality; Indigenous politics; social movements; and corruption. In this course you will gain a foundational understanding of the Australian political system.

Areas of study: Politics

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. identify the political dynamics involved in the mobilisation of individuals and groups seeking power or aiming to influence those in power in Australia;
2. interpret and analyse key issues and debates in Australian politics;
3. apply political concepts and theories to analyse interests, ideas, institutions, and political behaviour in Australia;
4. critically analyse the formation and foundations of the Australian nation state;
5. critically evaluate different interpretations of political phenomena;
6. communicate ideas, frameworks, and systems about Australian politics effectively through tutorial engagement and rigorous written analysis.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.