Let me start by sharing this link:
It is an article from today, about ANZAC day and what the government thinks about 'history' in our school curriculum.
I have a few things to say about this.
They (Members of the Gov) want there to be a positive outlook on Australian History, rather than a "black armband" one.
"That history, while inclusive of indigenous history, must highlight the
pivotal role of the political and legal institutions from England,
Ireland, Scotland and Wales.". While this sentence is including indigenous history, it puts all the attention and glory to the contributions of European countries on Australian History. Sure, it was after white settlement, by these Europeans that was what you could say a beginning of the western approach, and it was the foundation to what Australia has become.
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| Magnifying certain countries |
However, it excludes so many people, countries, cultures that are all infused in Australian culture. To me, this goes against the non-racist, non-discriminant image the government tries to create of Australia.
The new curriculum, will incorporate ANZAC day studies in year 3, and the Gallipoli campaign in year 9.
Perhaps all this isn't really necessary. Learning a little about James Cook ad all that, Indigenous life before and after, the wars and a bit about the number of different nationalites that make up Australia is enough.
I only came in Australia from halfway through year 5, but I remember learning about this in SOSE year 7. We learn about James Cook coming, we saw the movie Gallipoli, did a whole term or so on various countries, we actually watched documentaries on the countries including Australia and then had to answer various questions, research and even make a game relating to this! We didn't do much about indigenous people, as that had been covered in year 4 or earlier.
I think there is nothing wrong with the way my primary school taught SOSE. ANZAC day isn't all that makes up Australia, its one contributor but "You can't grow up in this country and not know about the Anzacs" is a bit excessive.
Also, I do not mean to offend anyone, it is important to recognise it and understand it's importance, especially to those that lost their lives. However, did they really do it fighting for our country? Was Australia...the far of country in any danger other than England not being allies or something?
On the bright side, all those who don't have their school holidays at the moment get a public holiday. YIPPEE for them!
Anyway, have a good night everyone...
P.S - If the gov wants to change things, sure they can go ahead and do so. It doesn't affect me, and I'm not hating the Europeans or anything either. It would just be nice if things were a bit more genuinely equal and inclusive.
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| No gaps, no discrimination |
So Long,
Nehal
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