102-111 Australia Now

Students are not permitted to undertake within a 12-month period more than two undergraduate subjects offered by the Australian Centre.

This subject is recommended for students wishing to complete a major in Australian studies.

This subject introduces students to key social, political and environmental issues which are shaping contemporary Australia. It is ideal for international students, for students whose main area of study lies outside the humanities, and for students who wish to gain a broad understanding of the complex challenges facing Australia today. The subject is responsive to current debates in Australia, and issues it covers include the arguments about social justice and land rights for Aborigines; immigration and multiculturalism; environmental concerns; the relationships between men and women; Australia's identity and the impact of globalisation; and the place of tourism, sport and the arts in Australian cultural and economic life. Students are encouraged to develop their own analyses of contemporary Australia, using appropriate theoretical constructs, fieldwork, and a variety of sources. Lectures and tutorials draw on a range of materials including journal and newspaper articles, poetry, novels and Australian films and documentaries.

• be able to conduct research through competent use of the library and other information sources, and the definition of areas of inquiry and methods of research;

• demonstrate critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate thinking in theoretical terms through lectures, tutorial discussion, essay writing and engagement in the methodologies of the humanities and social sciences;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgments, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically through essay writing and tutorial discussion.

An essay of 1500 words 25% (due mid-semester) and an essay of 2500 words 75% (due during the examination period). A hurdle requirement for this subject is attendance of 70% of tutorials.

A subject reader will be available.