A critical analysis of core Aboriginal studies subjects

Janet Mooney, Rhonda G. Craven

    Research output: Chapter in Book / Conference PaperChapter

    2 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Purpose: The aim of this chapter is to critically analyse multiple stakeholders’ self-perceptions of the value, nature, success and impact of core Aboriginal Studies subjects in primary teacher education university courses. Methodology: Participants were drawn from two universities in New South Wales which taught a core Aboriginal Studies subject as part of their primary teacher education degree. The methodology was informed by Yin’s (2003) multiple-case study replication design. This replication presents a picture of the perceptions and events which have impacted on the participants in the study. Findings: The findings have important implications for theory, research and practice. The results of this study demonstrate that core Aboriginal Studies subjects in primary teacher education courses can make a positive difference in changing the perceptions of many pre-service teachers about Aboriginal people. Research implications: The purpose of this study was to assemble an evidence-based rationale, which includes the voices of multiple stakeholders, to test the extent to which core Aboriginal Studies subjects in primary teacher education courses are vital to improving educational outcomes for Aboriginal children, advancing reconciliation and creating a more socially just Australian society. Implications: Undertaking professional training through a core Aboriginal Studies subject builds pre-service teachers’ self-concepts, attitudes, commitment, knowledge and skills, and ability and understandings to teach Aboriginal Studies, incorporate Aboriginal perspectives and to be committed to effectively teaching Aboriginal students. Social implications: The study supports the need for the inclusion of core Aboriginal Studies subjects in all universities with teacher education courses. Originality/value of the paper: Research on Indigenous students has mostly adopted a deficiency model. In contrast, this study takes an explicitly positive perspective on Indigenous student success by focusing on the active psychological ingredients that facilitate successful learning.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationSeeding Success in Indigenous Australian Higher Education
    EditorsRhonda G. Craven, Janet Mooney
    Place of PublicationU.K.
    PublisherEmerald
    Pages319-342
    Number of pages24
    ISBN (Print)9781781906866
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2013

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