History

Watch now: To find out more about this curriculum area, watch ‘Understanding the Victorian Curriculum F–10 Version 2.0, History’ on the Resources page.

Rationale and Aims

Rationale

History is the disciplined process of investigating evidence to develop understandings of the past. In History, students use evidence from historical sources to construct explanations of the past. This past includes the events, developments and the experiences of individuals, communities and societies that have shaped our diverse contemporary world. In the Victorian Curriculum F–10, students learn about and come to understand themselves and their communities by engaging with the rich and enduring histories and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples; ancient and pre-modern societies; societies of Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Pacific region; global themes; and the colonisation of the Australian continent and Australia’s development as a nation.

Learning in History is investigative, interpretive and creative. It asks and responds to questions about the past that give meaning to our shared histories and experiences, and helps in understanding ourselves and the actions of others. The interrelated historical skills and concepts that underpin this process include:

• historical questions
• chronology
• using historical sources
• continuity and change
• causes and consequences
• historical significance
• communicating.

Through learning in History, students come to appreciate that pasts are contestable, shared and relevant to their world. Students learn that the diverse experiences of individuals, society, beliefs, events and developments in the past have shaped our shared experiences. History enables students to appreciate how the world, nations, communities and peoples have changed, and the significant continuities of the present day. This knowledge and understanding is essential for their informed and active participation as citizens in Australia’s diverse society.

Aims

History aims to ensure that students develop:

• an interest in, and enjoyment of, historical study for lifelong learning and work by cultivating a sense of wonder and curiosity
• their capacity and willingness to be informed and active citizens by fostering an understanding of social diversity, inclusion and social participation
• knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the past, the experiences and perspectives of groups and individuals, and the forces that shape societies and environments, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Australia, Asia and the Western world
• understanding and use of historical concepts and skills, including historical questions, chronology, using historical sources, continuity and change, causes and consequences, historical significance and communicating
• the capacity to undertake historical inquiry, including skills in analysing and using sources, and in explaining and communicating arguments.