WMST1001 Sex, Gender and Identities in Australia

This topic introduces students to questions of gender and power in everyday life and social institutions in Australian society. It explores connections between personal experience and social structures, and the changing social position of women. The topic examines issues facing women today such as stereotypes and media images, differences among women, work, violence and families. It introduces concepts central to women's studies such as the sex/gender distinction; the social construction of difference; and the interrelatedness of gender and power. The topic will enhance students' oral and written communication skills and provides a valuable introduction to Women's Studies topics at second and third year level.

This topic aims to introduce some basic concepts of Women's Studies through issues and debates about sex and gender in Australian society. This involves providing a framework within which to consider how ideas about sex and gender are created and circulated in society as well as the various ways the diversity of women's experiences in contemporary Australian society formed through race, ethnicity, class and sexuality.

1. Explain the concepts of gender, sex and identity and use them appropriately
2. Identify and analyse power relations in Australian society and how these influence and are influenced by gender
3. Examine the ways race, ethnicity, class and sexuality affect gender identity and experience in Australia
4. Criticise and rebut popular misconceptions about sex/gender
5. Use critical analysis to explore various representations, including advertisements, film, life stories and academic scholarship