James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

IA5029 - Comparative Indigenous Studies

This subject includes an optional study trip to South East Asia for a maximum of 20 students. Eligible students will need a current passport with a minimum of 6 months until expiry. There will be additional costs payable by all students who undertake the study trip and students should contact the subject coordinator to obtain further details. Those students who are unable to participate in the study trip can complete the subject by the usual internal or external mode of delivery.

Subject Description

This subject focuses on the similarities and differences in Indigenous peoples' experiences of colonisation in selected countries and the resultant impact. Students will be introduced to the different historical and contemporary circumstances of Indigenous people in other colonial contexts and various instruments and terms of political inclusion for Indigenous peoples' agendas for change and pursuit of restorative justice. In doing so students will identify and analyse how different groups have developed strategies to respond to colonisation over time. The development of an international movement of Indigenous peoples following the establishment of the UN Charter of Human Rights will also be explored.

There are additional charges for this subject; please contact the Academy Division for details.

Learning Outcomes

• identify and explain the similarities and differences in Indigenous peoples' experiences of colonisation in selected countries and the resultant impact
• critically analyse a range of strategies employed by Indigenous peoples in different countries in response to colonisation, and evaluate these in regard to colonisation in Australia
• apply appropriate dispositions and knowledge of cultural and communication protocols for engaging with Indigenous people and others, and evaluate the complexities of such protocols
• investigate the traditional, historical and contemporary position of the Indigenous groups of the Pacific Rim

Subject Assessment

• Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (30%) - Individual
• Written > Essay (including multi-draft) 1 - (50%) - Individual
• Written > Annotated bibliography - (20%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Assumed Knowledge:  Academic skills assumed as at a postgraduate level (reading, writing essays, applying information to real world situations)

Availabilities