Spinning the Dream : Assimilation in Australia 1950-1970
North Fremantle
:
Fremantle Press
,
2008
Z1573773
2008
single work
criticism
(taught in 3 units)
'In Spinning the Dream, the author re-evaluates the experience of Assimilation in Australia, providing a meticulously researched and masterfully written assessment of its implications for Australia's Indigenous and ethnic minorities and for immigration and refugee policy'. (Source: Fremantle Press website)
Australians are hardly recognisable today against the Australia and Australians of 1945. In the last sixty-five years, numerous social, cultural and political ideas, policies and actions have shaped and re-constructed Australians. Understanding how Australia has evolved as a nation, a community, a culture and a people involves critically analysing various constructions, meanings and interpretations. A study of Australian society and culture will therefore involve an appreciation of Australian people and the significant political and social debates that they engage in.
Aims
This unit is designed to provide overseas and Australian students with an understanding of Australian culture and values. It offers insights and understandings about issues that divide Australians as well as events and circumstances that unite the nation.
top Objectives
Upon completion of this unit, students will:
1. demonstrate knowledge of change over time in contemporary Australia
2. express articulate informed opinions on contemporary Australian society and culture,
3. apply historiographical methodologies to the resolution of problems and research questions,
4. appreciate the influences shaping society and culture in Australia.
5. acquire an enhanced understanding of the values of other cultures.
top Content
The achievement of learning outcomes will be carried out by examining central aspects of Australia's history, with the post-world war 2 period emphasised. Lectures will expose students to the contestability of historical interpretation and the manner in which these interpretations are influenced by cultural and political considerations. The unit is uniquely multicultural in that overseas student input is especially valued. Opportunities are provided for both overseas and Australian students to work together collaboratively and to explore cultural similarities and differences.
The unit includes the following topics:
Coastal Australia
Rural Australia - Mateship
Brisbane
Australian Films
Australia's (other) Principal Cities
Excursion - Brisbane
Indigenous Australians (1)
Indigenous Australians (2)
Tourism in SE Queensland
Sport in Australia
The Monarchy or a Republic
Immigrants
Defending Australia
Description: Oral presentation to class on specified topics utilizing visual material.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5.
Weight: 20%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Group
Due date: TBA
Assessment name: Essay
Description: A 1500 word extended prose response to set questions.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3 & 4.
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: TBA
Assessment name: Examination (Theory)
Description: Set Questions - Written responses.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2 & 4.
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: TBA
