Indigenous Histories in Film

Subject 673-336 (2008)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008.Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.500
Level: Undergraduate
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

Semester 2, - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable


Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Total Time Commitment: Not available
Prerequisites: Usually 25 points of first year study including completion of the first year subject 100-181 Introduction to Indigenous Cultures
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Coordinator

Sean Gorman
Subject Overview:

This subject will explore the historical constructions in documentary and feature films of the inter-relations between Indigenous and non- Indigenous Australians since 1788 until the present. A major focus of this subject will be to examine the way Indigenous Australians have been constructed in documentary and feature film in Australia and how specific policies have impacted upon Indigenous Australians since the time of contact. Further, this subject will explore how Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians have worked collaboratively to create filmic documents about Indigenous historical moments, events and people. Students will examine and engage with documentary and feature films to analyse constructions of Indigenous identities, racism in Australian Society as well as the discourses of struggle, resistance and reconciliation.

Assessment: A 1500 word essay 30% (due during semester), a 2000 word essay 50% (due during the examination period), and a 10 minute tutorial presentation equivalent to 500 words 20% (completed during semester).
Prescribed Texts: Prescribed Texts:A subject reader will be available from the Univesity Bookshop. Films: Jedda; Exile and the Kingdom; Frontier; Chant of Jimmy Blacksmith; Black Chicks Talking; The Tracker; Rabbit Proof Fence; Australian Rules; Ten Canoes; BeDevil; Coolbaroo Club; Radiance.
Breadth Options: This subject is a level 2 or level 3 subject and is not available to new generation degree students as a breadth option in 2008.
This subject or an equivalent will be available as breadth in the future.
Breadth subjects are currently being developed and these existing subject details can be used as guide to the type of options that might be available.
2009 subjects to be offered as breadth will be finalised before re-enrolment for 2009 starts in early October.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

  • be skilled in critical thinking and analysis;

  • be able to engage with theoretical concepts and develop a position that considers and employs both critical and creative means in engaging with complex themes and issues;

  • possess effective written communication skills;

  • have an understanding of social, ethical and cultural perspectives.

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