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  3. New Caledonia in the 21st Century

New Caledonia in the 21st Century (FREN20021)

Undergraduate level 2Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability
June
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This course, which includes an intensive in-country component, will explore the history, politics and socio-cultural context of New Caledonia as it transitions towards possible independence from France through a series of referenda between 2014 and 2018. This will be achieved by examining the events which have led to this transition, including the independence movements in the 1970s and 80s and the Matignon and Nouméa agreements. The central theme of the course is the “common destiny” of the various peoples of New Caledonia; this theme will be examined through a series of lectures and workshops prior to departure, and a diverse program of activities on site in New Caledonia, including a visit to the Kanak Customary Senate and a stay with a Kanak community.

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should:



  • be able to reflect on and describe in oral and written French diverse aspects of New Caledonian history, politics, culture and society;
  • be able to analyse the notion of “common destiny” and debate the implications of this notion for the various peoples of New Caledonia;
  • be able to compare and contrast the colonial and convict pasts of Australia and New Caledonia;
  • be able to show critical thinking and analysis through required and recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by assessing the strength of an argument;
  • have demonstrated research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;
  • have demonstrated skills in public speaking and confidence in self-expression through seminar participation and class presentations and interaction with the local population;
  • be able to show awareness of new aspects of French and Francophone culture;
  • have demonstrated understanding of social, ethical and cultural contexts;
  • have demonstrated international awareness and openness to the world.

Generic skills

At the completion of this subject, students should:

  • be able to show critical thinking and analysis through required and recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by assessing the strength of an argument;
  • be able to demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;
  • be able to demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural contexts;
  • be able to demonstrate international awareness and openness to the world;
  • show awareness of new aspects of French and Francophone culture;
  • be able to demonstrate skills in public speaking and confidence in self-expression through seminar participation and class presentations and interaction with the local population.

Last updated: 11 April 2024