Aboriginal Studies

Prerequisite  None

Course Description

Aboriginal Studies is designed to foster intellectual, social and moral development by enabling students to think

critically about the historical and contemporary experiences of Aboriginal peoples. Students will develop a

heightened understanding and appreciation of the concepts of social justice and shared histories.

The Year 11 course focuses on Aboriginal peoples’ relationship to the Land, heritage and identity, and an

historical examination of colonialism, racism and prejudice. It includes the development of skills in culturally

appropriate research and inquiry methods using local community case studies.  

The HSC course provides for in depth study of legislation, policy, judicial processes and current events. During the

course, students will undertake consultation with the local Aboriginal community and will study national and

international Indigenous communities. Students apply research and inquiry methods through the completion of a

major research project.

For whom is this subject intended

Students with an interest in human rights and social justice will benefit from this course.  Students will benefit

from the study of Aboriginal Studies if they go on to study or work in the area of health, education, police and

justice, sociology, law, politics, history, geography, international studies and business.  This course provides

excellent background for any course or occupation involving research and communication with people.

Main Topics Covered

Year 11 course

● Aboriginality and the Land 

● Heritage and Identity 

● International Indigenous Community: Comparative Study 

● Research and Inquiry Methods: Local Community Case Study 

HSC Course

● Social Justice and Human Rights Issues 

● Global Perspective 

● Comparative Study 

● Heritage and Identity or Aboriginality and the Land

● Research and Inquiry Methods –Project 

Particular Course Requirements

In both courses, students must undertake mandatory community case studies. The project log will document all

work completed, including the sequential development of the project and the nature and timing of community

based fieldwork.  This course requires students to apply ethically-based research practices.

The course is well supported by Gooroon and the AECG. In 2020, St John’s student Jasmine Hair placed second in

the course in NSW and was the highest performing Non-Aboriginal student.