Aboriginal Studies

ABORIGINAL STUDIES

2 UNIT ABORIGINAL STUDIES

2 Unit Aboriginal Studies develops students’ knowledge and understanding about the historical and contemporary experiences of Aboriginal peoples and the concept of “shared histories” with a view to enabling students to be active and informed citizens in promoting a just society for all Australians.

Aboriginal history and culture are fundamental to the development of Australian identity. Aboriginal Studies acknowledges the contribution of Aboriginal cultures and communities to Australian society. Aboriginal Studies seeks to provide a body of knowledge that is both accurate and unbiased. The course will provide students with ways of detecting and analysing bias in representations of Aboriginal peoples.

Aboriginal Studies is a unique experience for both Aboriginal students and non-Aboriginal students. Aboriginal students are provided with an opportunity for cultural affirmation and positive educational experiences, while non-Aboriginal students are able to “learn together” with Aboriginal peoples and communities. All students are encouraged to take an active role in the process of reconciliation.

Course

Preliminary

HSC

Topic Description

Part I: Aboriginality and the Land Students will learn about the history of Aboriginal peoples in Australia and their experiences of European colonisation and dispossession.

Part II: Heritage and Identity Aboriginal social and cultural life is diverse and complex. Students will learn about the dreaming and the ways that racismimpacts the well-being and identity of Aboriginal peoples.

Part III: International Indigenous Community: Comparative Study Part IV: Research and Inquiry Methods: Local Community Case Study Students will explore experiences of Aboriginality and identity among Native American groups with the intention of comparing them with Australian Aboriginal histories.

This is a self-directed research project on an Aboriginal community. Students will interview Aboriginal peoples on the Central Coast to gain a deeper understanding of the topic they wish to investigate.

Part I: Social Justice and Human Rights Issues

50% of course time Students will gain an in depth understanding of human rights. Students will also develop a rich understanding of the ways that Aboriginal peoples experience health and education.

Part II: Aboriginality and the Land

20% of course time

Part III: Research and Inquiry Methods: Major Project

30% of course time Students will learn about the efforts made by Aboriginal peoples to reassert their sovereign title to Country and the impact that these efforts have had on Aboriginal peoples and the wider Australian community. Students will conduct original research on an aspect of an Aboriginal community and present it as a major project. As part of their research, students will participate in interviews, data collection and data analysis. The project will conclude with a presentation of findings, which can take the form of a report, performance, play/poetry, visual art, teaching program, photo essay or video presentation.