Unit Synopsis

This unit is designed to introduce you to the complexity, richness, diversity and continuing development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples context and culture. You will learn to articulate the ways in which their perspectives deepen and enrich the life of our nation and communities. You will be introduced to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing and being, and, in particular, their profound connection with land and country and with the story-lines that flow from them, comparing their views on time, identity, individuality and collective responsibility. Through this examination, you will gain an appreciation of the resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. You will also explore the intergenerational impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders of colonisation, dispossession and displacement, and of the forced separation of children from their families. You will consider the role health and human services workers have played in these events, and reflect on implications for social work practice with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations today. You will learn how to interact in a culturally safe and appropriate manner and to forge effective relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to counter ongoing discrimination and oppressive practices and achieve lasting positive change.

Details

Unit Availabilities from Term 2 - 2025

Attendance Requirements

All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes - in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).