Semester 2 unit: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Approaches to Christian Theology

What will be covered?

The unit will introduce students to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander approaches to theology. After an introduction to methods commonly used by Indigenous theologians and to the history of Indigenous-Colonial relations on this continent, sustained attention will be given to Indigenous approaches to spirituality, the divine, Christ, ritual and church, creation, justice and hope.

Where and when?

The unit will offered online via Zoom on Monday evenings between 6:30 and 9:30pm (AEST) during the second semester of 2023.  Semester 2 starts on 31 July and ends on 3 November.

How does the unit fit into my study plans?

The unit is offered as a foundational Indigenous Studies (IS) unit at both undergraduate (IS1001M) and postgraduate (IS8001M) levels. The unit may be taken as stand-alone subject, or as part of a University award such as the Bachelor of Theology or Master of Divinity. You can also take it as an audit student (but you will still be required to do the reading and make an oral presentation).  You are encouraged to enrol in the unit via your existing University of Divinity College or, if you don’t yet have a College, you can be in touch with the School of Indigenous Studies directly for course advice.

How will it be assessed?

There are three pieces of written assessment: a research essay or mixed media presentation, a tutorial paper based on an oral presentation, and a book review. The word lengths required will differ depending on the level at which you take the subject. Audit participants are not required to submit written work.

Who will my teachers be? How shall we learn?

The primary teacher will be the Reverend Dr Garry Deverell, a trawloolway man from lutruwita (Tasmania) and a Lecturer and Research Fellow within our School of Indigenous Studies. There may be some special guests as well.  Garry assumes that he will learn as much from students as students will learn from him.  Much of the learning will done by reflecting, in yarning (or respectful conversation), on readings or short videos set for each class.

How do I enrol?

For course advice regarding how this unit could fit in with your existing study plans, please speak to the Academic Dean at your chosen College.

To enrol in the unit, visit this webpage, fill out the appropriate form in the drop-down below, and then contact Dr Deverell on 03 9131 4929 (9am to 3pm AEST, Monday to Friday) to arrange a conversation about whether this unit is right for you.