Abstract
This seminar engages with the Australian national flag and discusses how research done in this field can be applied to teaching in the School of Indigenous Australian Studies (SIAS). Indigenist Standpoint Pedagogy (ISP) alongside vexillology provide a framework from which to deconstruct the Australian flag, its symbolism and historical, institutional and social applications. Critical engagement with the Australian national flag provides the opportunity to deepen understandings about the ongoing, multifaceted effects of colonisation which have shaped Australia’s political, social and economic histories for over 250 years. Reflexive analysis of the Australian flag reveals how this primary symbol of national identity has long underpinned and influenced relationships that Indigenous Australians and non-Indigenous Australians have, not only with the nation, but also with each other. The seminar begins by sharing some ideas about using the flag as “an educational tool” and then considers how the flag can enhance learning experiences within SIAS. Following this vexillology, the scholarly study of flags is introduced which, when dovetailed with ISP has created the opportunity to develop learning activities that are designed to facilitate greater understandings about Australian society, at both the individual and collective level. The key themes for learners to consider as they explore the facets of “Australia” through ISP and a vexillological lens are: identity, inclusion, belonging and connection. Throughout the seminar, questions will be raised that invite you to reflect on the Australian national flag and to consider how the flag might make meaning for Indigenous Australians and non-Indigenous Australians in differing ways.
| Original language | English |
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| Publication status | Published - 08 Oct 2024 |
| Event | Theory to Practice: Practical Applications of Academic Research in the School of Indigenous Australian Studies - Dubbo Duration: 08 Oct 2024 → 08 Oct 2024 |
Seminar
| Seminar | Theory to Practice: Practical Applications of Academic Research in the School of Indigenous Australian Studies |
|---|---|
| Period | 08/10/24 → 08/10/24 |
| Other | The School of Indigenous Australian Studies is excited to announce the soft launch of our new seminar series Theory to Practice: Practical Applications of Academic Research in SIAS. Starting on the 8th of October at 1:00pm,This series will explore how academic research within our school is applied to teaching and learning. While we await the appointment of our new Head of School, this series provides an opportunity to reflect on how, despite the short-term absence of Indigenous leadership in the School, we remain grounded in Indigenous scholarship and continue to align our research as non-Indigenous scholars with these frameworks. We hope to continue this series in 2025 with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous academics sharing their insights. The first seminar will be presented by Tracey Mee. |