Focus on...

The modern world constantly confronts us with information to explain and make meaning of the people and events around us. Open social media or turn on the news, and you will hear snippets of developments both internationally or in our own backyards that are being communicated to make an impact on the viewer, but regularly don’t unpack the full story of what has caused what we are seeing or hearing.

The events of today often have roots in the past, and we can easily encounter conflicting narratives and distorted interpretations. As Christians we need to be able to discern accurate information within its context to understand the nuance of how and why events occur, and how we should respond as we live for God to bring restoration in His world.

One way VCE History can equip students in this endeavor is by teaching them to critically engage with sources. By discussing what makes a source valid and questioning their message, the motivation of the author/artist, what the source is useful for as well as what they aren’t including, students can begin to see how sources are used to present a piece of a narrative that should be considered alongside others. Sources present historical perspectives and interpretations for students to compare with each other to see the complexity in the causes and consequences of the events in the periods in which we study.

Students also learn to form their own historical arguments about what led to continuities and changes in history, as well as the significance of those events on the people who lived at the time and today. They develop these robust narratives based off the sources they have selected and analysed, to enable them to make their own sense of the past.

Importantly, VCE History is an opportunity to consider how the historical work we are engaging in fits within what transformational education refers to as the ‘Overarching Story’; God’s narrative of redemption and his advancing Kingdom. Students can understand that as we study the story of the past we are also active agents with what God is continuing in the present and there is an opportunity to partner with Him in this process.

Stephanie Sutton 

Secondary Teacher/Humanities Faculty Leader