Aboriginal studies and Torres Strait Islander studies

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies have not always been seen as important areas of study. It is only recently that these studies have been seen as contemporary and studied within the area of social education. This chapter discusses ways in which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies have been marginalised (and identifies the museum or 'tea towel' approach as an example) and provides a compelling argument for the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies in school curricula. A range of approaches that facilitate student engagement with this critical area of study are examined. Chapter 15 also explores the issue of school context - that is the importance and relevance of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander Studies for different students (non-indigenous; and rural, remote and urban indigenous). Perhaps most importantly, this chapter emphasises the need to make the curriculum inclusive of all students and of making things Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander an everyday occurrence rather than an artificial, isolated experience. A range of relevant teaching and learning resources are detailed and at the conclusion of the chapter several activities are provided to consolidate students' understanding of this chapter. This section of the companion website asks students to explore the range of digital resources available to support the teaching and learning of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies