Elspeth   

This year I have been studying Stage 2 Aboriginal Studies through Open Access College. Having completed this course I am now equipped with knowledge in the areas of Indigenous culture, identity, communities, history, arts and more. I believe that this course has given me a greater understanding of Indigenous history, culture etc. than that of many Indigenous Youth today. It is my strong feeling that this course would be extremely beneficial to all students, and a valuable means to counter racism. Whilst I realise that the Year 11 and Year 12 Curriculum is already very full, I truly believe that having Aboriginal Studies as an option for Stage 1 and 2 students would be an advantageous choice.

Throughout this year, whilst studying via Open Access I have been given a lot of independence and have been required to be very self-motivated. At times this has been a challenge, but with the readily available electronic contact with Cheryl (my Aboriginal Studies teacher) I have completed all tasks at a high standard. Some students may struggle with the self-motivation, but as with all subjects, if they are willing to be committed and if they are passionate about the subject, success is in their hands.

Aboriginal Studies is available to study at Stage 1 and Stage 2 level. Having only completed Stage 2, I am unable to explain the content of Stage 1, but I imagine that it would cover similar topics at a less extensive level. As briefly explained earlier the topics that I studied covered a broad range. Histories explored European Settlement and the two sided battle of injustice; Contemporary Issues looked at direct and indirect racism, outlining causes, effects and possible solutions; Cultures and Identities taught about Aboriginal culture, and the serious effects of lost culture (as seen in many abuse-stricken communities); Aboriginal Communities took us down to Camp Coorong experience activities like basket weaving, and to learn (and taste) a lot on the Bush-tucker Trail; the Investigation allowed us the freedom to explore in great depth a current issue that we were passionate about (I explored petrol sniffing in the APY lands); and Aboriginal Arts explored the expression of strong political and social statements, with art being their main voice in the public arena. Each of these topics included many links between the events of the past and how they have influenced life today.

This subject is very relevant for anyone who has an interest in different cultures, Aboriginal culture specifically, or anyone interested in working directly with people. I am convinced that there is great truth in the cliché that says ‘to understand the present, you must understand the past’. If we want to develop a society where everyone is understood and treated fairly, it is vital that we don’t judge people by appearances, but that we instead look beyond the surface to the issues of the past.