IND720 - Decolonising Teaching and Learning: Recognition, Relationships, and Reconciliation On Unceded Land

Content

This unit offers pre-service teachers a profound exploration of complex learning processes centred around identity, knowledge, and histories, specifically from the perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences and wisdoms. The focal point of self-awareness encourages students to forge meaningful interconnections between the curriculum and Indigenous perspectives and knowledges. Moreover, the unit facilitates the development of deep insights into family, kinship, and community, fostering a profound respect for diverse ways of being and knowing, crucial in formulating effective teaching strategies for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

Throughout the unit, students will engage in critical reflection and analysis of the complexities embedded within Indigenous identities, knowledges, and histories. They will explore the multifaceted nature of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences, delving into the rich cultural heritage and ancestral connections that shape their perspectives. Drawing on diverse resources, including oral histories, visual representations, and literature, students will examine the impact of colonization, the resilience of Indigenous communities, and the ongoing processes of decolonization.

This unit places significant emphasis on fostering empathy, understanding, and cultural competence. Students will engage in collaborative discussions, case studies, and experiential activities to deepen their understanding of the lived realities and contemporary issues faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. They will critically analyse educational policies and practices, seeking ways to embed Indigenous perspectives across various subject areas and grade levels, with a focus on promoting inclusivity, social justice, and equity in the classroom.

The unit promotes active engagement with local Indigenous communities, inviting guest speakers, elders, and knowledge holders to share their stories and perspectives. Students will have the opportunity to participate in cultural immersion experiences, community visits, and language workshops, fostering a holistic understanding of Indigenous cultures and worldviews.

By the end of the unit, pre-service teachers will have developed a comprehensive toolkit of pedagogical strategies, resources, and ethical frameworks to guide their teaching practice. They will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to create culturally responsive and inclusive learning environments that celebrate the diversity and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Unit Fee Information

Fees and charges vary depending on the type of fee place you hold, your course, your commencement year, the units you choose to study and their study discipline, and your study load.

Tuition fees increase at the beginning of each calendar year and all fees quoted are in Australian dollars ($AUD). Tuition fees do not include textbooks, computer equipment or software, other equipment or costs such as mandatory checks, travel and stationery.

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