This course introduces students to the histories, key terms and approaches shaping the dynamic field of Pacific Studies. It outlines the ways in which Oceania has been mapped, represented and approached in scholarly and popular knowledge and emphasizes the complexity and diversity of this region. It provides an introduction in particular to the ways in which Australia and New Zealand interact with the Pacific and a comparative lens on the position of Pacific Islander communities within these two countries. Indigenous Pacific Islander approaches to engaging and learning Oceania are particularly highlighted.

At the end of this course students will have been provided with the tools to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the history and contemporary nature of Pacific regionalism and Australia's historical and policy role in this process.  

• Evaluate and critique the various ways in which the region and Pacific Island peoples have been mapped and represented in various disciplines and popular media.  

• Comprehend and describe the nature of transdisciplinary Pacific Studies in comparison with single-disciplinary approaches.   

• Demonstrate an awareness of the complexity and diversity of Oceania in terms of history, culture, development, environment, migration, gender relations, the arts and politics through group research projects.  

• Facilitate and lead discussions on contemporary Pacific issues with peers.  

In order to pass this course you must attend all tutorials and submit all written assessment. You cannot pass the course if you miss one of these components. 

Assignment 1: Attendance and Participation - Reflections of Oceania Up to one page outline (15%)  

Assignment 2: Relations and connections in Oceania 1200 – 1500 Word Review [Graduate students 2000] (15%) 

Assignment 3: Imagining Oceania 2000 Word Essay [2500 for graduate students] (20%) 

Assignment 4: Wan Kanu Research  Group Project Presentation- multimedia (20%) 

Assignment 5: Final Take-home exam- 2000 words plus relevant images or artwork  (30%) 

NIL

6 university courses (36 units)

PASI6001

Web CT based readings will be available as well as directions to online Pacific resources.