This presentation explores changes in linguistic and cultural diversity in Australia over time, and considers the role of languages education in enhancing intercultural understandings and a deeper exploration of what it means ‘to be’ Australian in this time of change.

Ways in which languages education can foster a more inclusive and ethical response to diversity within local communities and beyond will be discussed.

Those in proximity to the Inner West of Sydney are encouraged to attend in-person on Wednesday. For those outside Sydney who would like to attend, the talk will be live streamed via YouTube here.

Andrew Scrimgeour

Adjunct Research Fellow, University of South Australia

Andrew Scrimgeour has a long, distinguished career as a scholar, educator and advocate for languages education spanning four decades.

He has worked on more than 20 national languages education research and professional learning projects and was lead writer of the original curriculum for Chinese for the Australian Curriculum. Most recently he was Lead Researcher for the Australian Government commissioned project to develop a national plan and strategy for languages education in Australian schools, including the first comprehensive review of program provision and student participation in languages learning since 2005.

Andrew has many significant publications including his book with Jane Orton, Teaching Chinese as a Second Language: The way of the learner. He was recently awarded the AFMLTA Medal in recognition of his exceptional and outstanding contributions to language teaching in Australia.