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 for Aborigines; immigration and asylum seekers; environmental concerns; social inequality; the relationships between men and women; Australia's identity and the impact of globalisation. 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 and Australian films and documentaries.

• As a result of attendance at scheduled classes, participation in planned activities and discussion groups, and timely completion of essays and assignments, Arts graduates should acquire skills in the following areas:

• research: through competent use of the library and other information sources, and the definition of areas of inquiry and methods of research;

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

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

• 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;

• communicating 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). Students must complete all assignments and attend at least 70% of classes.

A subject reader will be available from the Bookroom at the beginning of semester.