131-190 Australian Modern

Formerly available as 131-004. Students who have completed 131-004 are not eligible to enrol in this subject. It is recommended that students undertake this subject in conjunction with 131-109 Australian Colonial. This subject is recommended for students wishing to complete a major in Australian studies.

This subject examines the development of modern Australia within both national and global frameworks, enabling students to develop an enhanced understanding of contemporary Australian society and culture. We will look at how key events and social trends (such as wars, the Depression, environmentalism, indigenous rights, globalisation, multiculturalism, suburbanisation) have shaped Australian identity, community and nationhood; at Australia's international relations with Britain, Europe, America and Asia, as well as the flow of ideas, peoples and refugees which have helped shape these. We will look at how these events and developments were experienced in private as well as in public, and at the memories and stories of individuals which helped shaped them. The subject will include site visits and group project work, and is suited to both local and international students with no necessary background in Australian history.

• 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.

Class participation 10% (throughout the semester), a 1500 word written assignment 35% (due mid semester), and a 2500 word written essay 55% (due at the end of semester).

A subject reader will be available.