ATS2269 · Contemporary Australia and its cultures: Peoples, places, identities

Overview

Contemporary Australia and its Cultures: Peoples, Places, Identities introduces students to Australian society, politics and its diverse cultures. You will explore the historical forces that have shaped modern Australia. Drawing on experts from within their fields, you will examine Australian Indigenous cultures, the rise of identity politics and how the country’s ongoing anxieties towards Asia have impacted on national identity. They will examine multicultural and refugee policies, and ask if they reflect Australia’s reputation as a welcoming and tolerant nation. The impact of climate change on the country’s diverse regions and cultures will be discussed; and how traditional national mythologies have shaped a predominantly white, masculine and developmentalist ethos. You will explore women’s places within this ethos and the wider culture, and their struggles for gender equality; as well as sport’s importance as an expression of Australian nationalism, and how it reflects regional and ethnic diversities, while reinforcing gender discrimination. From the unit, you will develop not only an understanding of the forces that have shaped contemporary Australian society and its cultures, but also the competencies required to negotiate the country’s cultural diversities and complexities.

Areas of study: Cultural competence Monash Intercultural Lab

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. analyse and explain the historical and cultural processes that have shaped various aspects of contemporary Australia;
2. utilise fieldwork to deepen understanding of the field of Australian Studies;
3. think, discuss and write critically about the issues that affect Australian politics, culture and society;
4. apply independent research and presentation skills to critically evaluate an issue in the field of Australian Studies

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. + Additional requirements + Field trip

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