Course overview
This course explores culturally plural societies, the construction of schools, and how these relate to social and educational policies. The course is designed with a student-centred learning focus. It is, in part, determined by their decision-making process as part of a critical pedagogical approach. There is thus considerable flexibility in the program. Key themes relating to 'core' values are explored in the context of cultural and educational theories. Historical, political, philosophical, social and economic perspectives can be included in the analysis of educational systems both in Australia and internationally. These, as well as alternative orientations to cultural pluralism, are examined regarding epistemologies, curriculum, school organisations and educational policy.
Course learning outcomes
- Identify the range of and explain how factors including the linguistic, cultural, historical, social, environmental, economic, political contexts influence educational policy development in multicultural societies.
- Compare and critically analyse the education policies of different countries, states, regions in terms of how they meet the educational and learning needs of multicultural societies.
- Participate in, provide insights on and contribute positively to whole class and group discussions on multicultural education policy development.
- In groups, develop an educational policy for a multicultural society.
- Deliver an academic presentation based on research, keep an audience engaged, lead a discussion on a multicultural educational policy issue.
- Present a well researched written academic argument, in an essay format on a multicultural education policy issue.