2021/22 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

ENGL5828M Global Indigeneity

30 creditsClass Size: 12

Module manager: Dr Clare Barker
Email: C.F.Barker@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2021/22

This module is not approved as an Elective

Objectives

On completion of the module, students should have developed:
1) The capacity to effectively analyse and critically examine a diverse range of indigenous literature and film
texts.
2) Knowledge and understanding of relevant theoretical concepts and debates, and the ability to apply these
ideas to creative works.
3) An advanced understanding of the impact of colonial history and contemporary politics on indigenous
peoples, and of indigenous modes of response to this history.
4) Sensitivity to cultural differences and a respectful approach to the beliefs, traditions, and practices of diverse
indigenous groups.
5) An awareness and understanding of diverse storytelling practices (written, oral and visual) and the ability to
analyse the aesthetic dimensions of indigenous texts.

Learning outcomes
By the end of the module students will develop skills in:
1) Effective communication (oral and written).
2) Advanced critical analysis of a range of discourses, genres and texts.
3) Advanced research skills.
4) Time management, independent project management, and organisational skills.
5) Negotiating and debating complex political issues with diplomacy, empathy, and confidence.

Skills outcomes
Masters (Taught), Postgraduate Diploma & Postgraduate Certificate students will have had the opportunity to acquire the following abilities as defined in the modules specified for the programme:
- the skills necessary to undertake a higher research degree and/or for employment in a higher capacity;
- evaluating their own achievement and that of others;
- self direction and effective decision making;
- independent learning and the ability to work in a way which ensures continuing professional development;
- to engage critically in the development of professional/disciplinary boundaries and norms.

Syllabus

In the past few decades, globalisation has put incredible pressure on the survival and wellbeing of Indigenous peoples. Yet at the same time, this period has seen the production of many rich and diverse creative works exploring the complexities of being Indigenous. Is it possible to be both indigenous and ‘modern’? How do Indigenous writers deal with clichés such as the ‘noble savage’ and the ‘dying race’? What place is there for Indigenous beliefs and values in a world where everything seems up for sale? This module approaches these questions by focusing on the politics and aesthetics of contemporary Indigenous literature and film. It explores how Indigenous writers situate themselves and their communities in relation to a globalised world, and how they intervene in debates about some of the most pressing contemporary issues: resource extraction and environmental health, tourism and development, genetic research and ‘biopiracy’. The module takes a comparative approach to Indigenous cultural production, looking at texts from or set in Australia, New Zealand, North America, Canada, the Pacific, Central and South America. It considers the common concerns and challenges facing Indigenous peoples as well as thinking about conflicts, practices and representations in culturally specific terms. Attention will be paid throughout the module to the form and aesthetics of indigenous narratives; we’ll examine indigenous approaches to storytelling and look at how recent writers and filmmakers blend ‘traditional’ storytelling practices with conventionally ‘western’ forms. Alongside the primary texts, students will read works of indigenous literary and cultural theory in order to contextualise their learning.

Priority for places on this module will be given to students on the MA Postcolonial Literary & Cultural Studies programme.

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Seminar	10	2.00	20.00
Private study hours			280.00
Total Contact hours			20.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			300.00

Private study

Reading, researching, seminar preparation

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

One unassessed essay of 1,700 words (which may be used as a formative piece for the final assignment (e.g. a synopsis or annotated bibliography) and to give one unassessed presentation on one of the set texts.

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Essay	1 x 4000 word essay	100.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 22/02/2022 12:11:00

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