History

Rationale and Aims

The VCAA has published the Victorian Curriculum F–10 Version 2.0. To view the curriculum, familiarisation resources and support material, go to the Victorian Curriculum F–10 Version 2.0 website.

Go to the VCAA website to explore the timeline for familiarisation and implementation of the Victorian Curriculum Version 2.0 (including upcoming dates for curriculum areas still being reviewed) and register for professional learning webinars.

Rationale

History is a disciplined process of investigation into the past that develops students' curiosity and imagination. Awareness of history is an essential characteristic of any society, and historical knowledge is fundamental to understanding ourselves and others. It promotes the understanding of societies, events, movements and developments that have shaped humanity from earliest times. It helps students appreciate how the world and its people have changed, as well as the significant continuities that exist to the present day. History, as a discipline, has its own methods and procedures which make it different from other ways of understanding human experience. The study of history is based on evidence derived from remains of the past. It is interpretative by nature, promotes debate and encourages thinking about human values, including present and future challenges. The study of history also provides opportunities to develop transferable skills of critical and creative thinking, such as the ability to explore questions, imagine possibilities and construct arguments.

Australian history is taught within a world history approach. This equips students for the world in which they live and enhances students’ appreciation of Australian history. Students appreciate Australia's distinctive path of social, economic and political development, and Australia’s position in the Asia-Pacific region, and our global relationships. Students develop an understanding of the past and present experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, their identity, and the continuing contribution and value of their culture. This knowledge and understanding is essential for informed and active participation in Australia's diverse society.

Aims

History aims to ensure that students develop:

• interest in, and enjoyment of, historical study for lifelong learning and work, including their capacity and willingness to be informed and active citizens
• knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the past and the forces that shape societies, including Australian society
• understanding and use of historical concepts and skills, including sequencing chronology, using historical sources as evidence, identifying continuity and change,  analysing cause and effect and determining historical significance
• capacity to undertake historical inquiry, including skills in the analysis and use of sources, and in explanation and communication of arguments.