Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit involves an engagement with postcolonial texts and their contexts. These texts may include novels, short stories and films from the Caribbean, China, Africa, India and Australia, and interpretations revolve around the key concepts of postcolonial theory. Readings interrogate the race and gender ideologies and practices of imperialism and also explore the strategies of postcolonial literary resistances.

Credit
6 points
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) independently critique and comment on a range of texts which involve the representation of transcultural exchanges; (2) demonstrate an understanding of the contexts in which these transactions have arisen, for example, conditions in colonies and postcolonies, in Indigenous communities, and in migrant and diasporic communities in postcolonies and in metropolitan cultures; (3) comprehend the complexities of cultural difference and the role of literary texts in expressing these new identities and social formations; (4) express ideas, information and argument coherently and logically in written and oral forms; (5) work effectively as a member of a collaborative group in a tutorial context; (6) enhance research skills in locating and assessing critical writing in traditional and digital media; and (7) have a critical understanding of the role played by ideologies of race, gender and class in literary and cultural contexts.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) tutorial participation; (2) essay; and (3) research exercise. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Ned Curthoys
Unit rules
Prerequisites
any Level 1 ENGL unit
Incompatibility
ENGL2245 Postcolonial Literatures
Contact hours
lectures: 1 hour per week
tutorials: 2 hours per week (over 10 weeks)
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.