Ranging across twentieth-century Australian history, this course takes a thematic approach to the shaping of society in response to both internal and externally-driven change.  Areas covered include geographical contexts, international conflict, Indigenous affairs, immigration, economic, technological and industrial transformations, social movements, environmental concern and cultural expression.  This course will question the claims made for an Australian identity, the patterns of inclusion and exclusion in Australian society, and the uses made of Australian history over time.  We will work against the familiarity of the Australian story to develop skills of critical analysis, argument and interpretation.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Evaluate the effectiveness with which a range of historical materials and evidence can be used to understand a past society.
2. Assess the claims made in contending historical interpretations, and account for differences in those interpretations.
3. Develop a sustained argument relating to the significance of historical issues, identifying what judgements or perspectives inform your case.
4. Demonstrate a capacity to adapt the form and focus of historical interpretations to a range of purposes and contexts.
5. Critically assess the extent to which a range of concepts – including class, culture, race, ethnicity, gender and ideology – can be applied in historical analysis, and assist understating themes (such as change, continuity, resistance, reform, reaction) often encountered in historical explanations.

Tutorial presentation (10%) will assess Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3 and 5.

• In tutorials, students will demonstate their capacities in evaluating evidence, identifying themes, and developing ideas and arguments.

The 1,000 word document analysis (20%) will assess Learning Outcomes 1, 3, and 4.

• It is designed to develop skills in locating and working with primary sources, and in determining their significance.

The  2,500 word essay (40%) will assess Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

• It is designed to develop reading, comprehension, analytical and writing skills.

The final examination (30%) will assess Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3 and 5.

• It will test skills of synthesis, comprehension and argument.

2 x one hour lectures and 1 x one hour tutorial per week. Students will be expected to devote 7 hours each week to study and preparation for this course.  Lectures will be taped.

None

HIST1001, HIST1203 and HIST2134

non

S. Macintyre, A Concise History of Australia, Cambridge 2004

This unit can be taken as part of the Australian Studies or History major.