029704 Initiatives and Innovations in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education

This subject provides substantial insight into the current issues, policies and pedagogy in the field of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education. The aim of the subject is to provide knowledge and essential support for the teacher in the field of indigenous education and to invite the teacher to use this insight to reconceptualise their own perspective and understanding of knowledge-sharing within the context of culture.

Students explore the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education in Australia and are made aware of the supportive role of various Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educational organisations and networks. The role of teachers as agents of change and the associated responsibilities of the educator in relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community consultation are addressed, emphasising the observance of cultural protocols and how teachers can be collaborative learners in the enterprise of education.

A comparative overview of developments in indigenous education in countries such as Canada, the USA and New Zealand assists students in understanding the global indigenous education experience and how indigenous scholars and educators have contributed to education generally.