INDG2003 Indigenous Australian Languages

The topic provides students with a basic understanding of the structural features of Australian languages, whilst recognising the diversity amongst them. It further aims to give students an accurate picture of the current languages situation in contemporary Aboriginal Australia. Language contact phenomena are explored including the influence of English on Australian languages, and of Australian languages on English, and the development of pidgins, creoles and koines. Contemporary issues and debates surrounding Australian languages are explored, and basic sociolinguistic concepts introduced as they relate to the Australian language context. The material is presented within the overall framework of the contemporary colonial context and the continuing Aboriginal struggle for social justice.

This topic aims to:

• Provide students with a basic understanding of the structural features of Australian languages, whilst recognising their diversity
• Provide students with an accurate picture of the current languages situation in contemporary Aboriginal Australia
• Explore language contact phenomena including the influence of English on Australian languages, and of Australian languages on English, and the development of pidgins, creoles and koines
• Provide information about contemporary issues and debates surrounding Australian languages, and about basic sociolinguistic concepts introduced as they relate to the Australian language context

1. Demonstrate a basic understanding of the structural features of Australian languages, and adequate recognition of their diversity
2. Demonstrate an accurate picture of the current situation regarding languages in contemporary Aboriginal Australia
3. Demonstrate a good knowledge of language contact phenomena including the influence of English on Australian languages, and of Australian languages on English, and the development of pidgins, creoles and koines
4. Identify and discuss contemporary issues and debates surrounding Australian languages
5. Demonstrate a working knowledge of basic sociolinguistic concepts introduced as they relate to the Australian language context