James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2001

AY5022:06

Principles and Practice of Heritage Management

Townsville

Inadmissable Subject Combination: AY5013

Flexible delivery – distance mode. Second semester.

Available to students who have completed a BA(Hons) or a BSocSc(Hons) in anthropology or archaeology or a BSc(Hons) in archaeology or other equivalent qualification approved by the Executive Dean on advice from the Head of School. Also available to all students enrolled in the Postgraduate Diploma of Cultural Heritage Studies or Master of Cultural Heritage Studies.

This subject offers a practical overview of the practice of heritage management. It introduces students to the notion of heritage ‘values’ which are used (both nationally and internationally) to define the cultural significance of heritage places. It provides students with a basic understanding of the principles and processes which determine heritage management practice. It presents a range of political and social contexts within which heritage management is undertaken and the way in which these influence practice.

In addition, it takes students through the administrative process behind the successful completion of heritage projects, from initial meetings through to the analysis of information and the production of a report. It provides an introduction to the types of records that should be kept (e.g. the creation and maintenance of files, keeping a record of telephone conversations etc).

Learning Objectives:

  1. develop an overview of practice in heritage management both in Australia and elsewhere;
  2. have a critical understanding of concepts (such as heritage ‘values’) that underpin the assessment of heritage significance and which are enshrined in national and international heritage charters;
  3. have an understanding of the diversity and complexity of heritage practice and the way in which it is influenced by political and social situations;
  4. have an understanding of the importance of maintaining records both in terms of ethical, legal and general administrative issues;
  5. have an understanding of the different types of reports that are required in heritage management.

Assessment by written assignments (100%).