131-038 Gender and Development

Formerly available as 131-227/327. Students who have completed 131-227 or 131-327 are not eligible to enrol in this subject. This subject is a core subject for the interdepartmental program in gender studies. This subject may also be taken as part of the interdepartmental program in Asian studies or Development studies.

50 points of first year from any area of study within the Faculty of Arts.

Feminist critiques of development are concerned with the way mainstream development strategies and projects have had a negative impact on the lives and welfare of women. In some cases, the very development projects introduced by 'developing countries' to improve the welfare of their population have led to a visible decline in women's level of autonomy and well-being. This subject examines key concepts and debates in the feminist critique of development, with reference to case studies drawn primarily from Asia. Students evaluate feminist criticisms of broad development strategies (such as growth-led developmental economics, agricultural modernisation and industrialisation) as well as smaller, community-based development projects. Students are also asked to review future feminist engagements with development in the light of environmental and postcolonial critiques.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

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

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

A research essay of 2500 words 55% (due mid-semester), a reflective essay of 1500 words 35% (due at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 10%.

A subject reader will be available.