33 / Through the Eyes of Indigenous Australians

Ziele
This course introduces you to a part of Australia known as Arnhem Land, in the Top End, which is the northernmost part of the Northern Territory. In particular, the focus is on the Yolgnu, the indigenous inhabitants who lead a semi‑traditional lifestyle.

You will be exploring their culture by viewing and discussing films that have been made about their lives. You will gain insight into how the Yolgnu people see the world and what their stories are about. Furthermore, you will use these films to discover the relationship the Yolgnu have to mainstream White Australian culture.

By the end of the course, you will have learnt about a fascinating, ancient culture and its struggle with modernity. You will have witnessed both the tragedy and the immense vitality of their lives. And for those that wish or need to, you will have considered ways in which these films might be used in an ESL context (B1 level or above).

Arbeitsweise
The course is built around a small selection of films. You must view one film before attending each session (a total of two films watched at home) while considering a set of discussion questions that will then be referred to in class. You may contact the instructor during this phase to ask questions for how to proceed, should problems arise.

During each session, you will read short theoretical and practical texts before joining the discussion. These texts will deepen your understanding of how films communicate and provide vital background information on the cultural traditions that the films are describing. Short presentations from the instructor in each session will provide you with additional insights. Discussions will then focus on the content of each film and the often surprising aspects of Aboriginal culture that are visible. The film list comprises both documentaries and narrative feature films.

Time should be allowed for viewing the films and considering the comprehension questions before each session (allow 2 hours prior to each session). The films will be made available via «Switchtube» two weeks before the start of the course.

The course is the first in a series of up to four dealing with how Aboriginal people view the world and how this is reflected in the films they make. All courses comprise the viewing of rarely seen contemporary films that give great insight into interesting aspects of Aboriginal culture.
Part 1: Arnhem Land through the eyes of the local people
Part 2: Central and Western Deserts ‑ the significance of sand and water
Part 3: Urban Aboriginal Experience in Sydney and Adelaide
Part 4: Rural Aboriginal Communities in New South Wales
 

Z3

Kurskosten OW LP: siehe