Instructions for Critical Analysis
Philips (2005, pp.16 -17) claims that “the authority vested in the word of the dominating view of Australian history is deemed to be unchallengeable not because it is beyond question, but simply because it has been reinforced by repetition and written text over the centuries”.
Using the quote above as a stimulus, write a 2000 word critical reflection that examines the History component of the HASS curriculum to identify evidence for or against Phillips’ claim with respect to Indigenous and non-indigenous views of the history of Australia. Your response should make reference to key ideas presented in the course materials and show evidence of independent research, including information gathered from professional associations which support teachers in teaching History.
Your response should include answers to the following questions:
- How does the curriculum document position teachers to treat the history of Australia?
- How might an understanding of historiography affect teachers’ interpretations or treatment of Australian History topics?
- What knowledge and skills do teachers of primary school History need to promote inquiry into an historical event or period from Indigenous and non-indigenous perspectives and why is this important?
- What strategies and resources can teachers use to help learners build their historical literacy?
- How can teachers help students understand contestability and build respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories?
You must illustrate your response to Questions 4 and 5 by providing examples of strategies and resources that could be used for an inquiry at a chosen year level.
Phillips, J. (2005) Indigenous knowledge: making space in the Australian centre. In J. Phillips & J. Lambert (Eds.). Introductory indigenous studies in education: the importance of knowling. Frenchs Forest, NSW: Pearson.
Important Links: Australian Curriculum(History)
http://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/humanities-and-social-sciences/hass/curriculum/f-10?layout=1 (Question 1)
