The aim of this course is to engender critical thought about law.  In particular, the course introduces students to feminist theories about law.  A range of topics will be discussed using a diverse range of feminist and critical materials.  Topics will include feminism within the academy, the concept of equality and violence against women as well as other topics.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Describe, discuss, explain, analyse and critique a selection of key feminist and other critical theories
2. Explain, appraise and evaluate feminist and critical strategies and methods
3. Apply feminist and other critical theories to analyse law or legal issues, and generate new perspectives
4. Design, plan and execute a substantial piece of written scholarship, with some independence
5. Engage in communication and debate with peers and staff in ways which respect social and cultural diversity

Required Resources

A list of readings for each topic will be provided on the course wattle site. Students can access journal articles online through the ANU library databases.

Staff Feedback

Students will be given feedback in the following forms in this course:

• written comments
• verbal comments
• feedback to whole class, groups, individuals, focus group etc

Student Feedback

ANU is committed to the demonstration of educational excellence and regularly seeks feedback from students. Students are encouraged to offer feedback directly to their Course Convener or through their College and Course representatives (if applicable). The feedback given in these surveys is anonymous and provides the Colleges, University Education Committee and Academic Board with opportunities to recognise excellent teaching, and opportunities for improvement. The Surveys and Evaluation website provides more information on student surveys at ANU and reports on the feedback provided on ANU courses.

Class Schedule

Week/Session	Summary of Activities	Assessment
1	Lectures (recorded) and Topics: Monday 4/5: Feminist and Critical Basics and Introduction (Topic 1) Wednesday 6/5: Feminist and Critical Epistemology (Topic 2) Public and Private in the Liberal State (Topic 3) Friday 8/5: Gender 'Inequality' (Topic 4) Engaging with the State (Topic 5)	Seminars (not recorded): Monday, Wednesday and Friday 7- 8.30 pm Planning meeting Monday (only) 8.30 - 9 pm
2	Lectures (recorded) and Topics: Monday 11/5: The category 'woman' (Topic 6) Intersectionality (Topic 7) Wednesday 13/5: Identity categories and Performativity (Topic 8) The Method Question (Topic 9) Friday 15/5: Colonialism and Indigeneity (Topic 10 TBC) Regulating women's bodies (Topic 11 TBC)	Seminars (not recorded): Monday, Wednesday and Friday 7- 8.30 pm No planning meetings this week
3	Lectures (recorded) and Topics: Monday 18/5 : Sex discrimination (Topic 12 TBC) Gender, the Law and COVID (Topic 13 TBC) Tuesday 19/5: Sexual violence and the law (Topic 14 TBC) Gender and the Corporation (Topic 15 TBC) Wednesday 20/5: Gendering Family Law (Topic 16 TBC) Masculinities (Topic 17 TBC) Thursday 21 /5 Gender and Judging (Topic 18 TBC) Gender and Citizenship (Topic 19 TBC) Friday 22/5: Wrap up - where to from here? (Topic 20)	Seminars (not recorded): Monday to Friday: 7- 8.00 pm Planning meeting: Friday 8.00 - 9pm

Tutorial Registration

There are no tutorials for this course.

Assessment Summary

Assessment task	Value	Due Date	Return of assessment	Learning Outcomes
Creative Response to a Reading	20 %	*	25/05/2020	1, 2, 5
Group creative response to a topic	15 %	*	25/05/2020	1, 2, 3, 5
Research paper and presentation	55 %	17/06/2020	03/07/2020	1, 2, 3, 4
Participation in an (online) event	10 %	*	03/07/2020	1, 5

* If the Due Date and Return of Assessment date are blank, see the Assessment Tab for specific Assessment Task details

Policies

ANU has educational policies, procedures and guidelines, which are designed to ensure that staff and students are aware of the University’s academic standards, and implement them. Students are expected to have read the Academic Misconduct Rule before the commencement of their course. Other key policies and guidelines include:

• Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure
• Special Assessment Consideration Policy and General Information 
• Student Surveys and Evaluations
• Deferred Examinations
• Student Complaint Resolution Policy and Procedure

Assessment Requirements

The ANU is using Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website. In rare cases where online submission using Turnitin software is not technically possible; or where not using Turnitin software has been justified by the Course Convener and approved by the Associate Dean (Education) on the basis of the teaching model being employed; students shall submit assessment online via ‘Wattle’ outside of Turnitin, or failing that in hard copy, or through a combination of submission methods as approved by the Associate Dean (Education). The submission method is detailed below.

Moderation of Assessment

Marks that are allocated during Semester are to be considered provisional until formalised by the College examiners meeting at the end of each Semester. If appropriate, some moderation of marks might be applied prior to final results being released.

Participation

This is an intensive, online course. There are roughly 10 hours of class in each of the 3 weeks, as well as a considerable amount of reading and thinking to do before each class. You are expected to participate in this course through a combination of reading, listening, regularly submitting your creative responses, and well as attending the online class events (the evening sessions). You ought to be interacting and collaborating with the both the material and others in the course through your participation in the group creative response to the topic, the discussions in those evening sessions, and the online event.

Examination(s)

There are no examinations in this course.

Assessment Task 1

Creative Response to a Reading

Details of Task: You will produce a short creative response to 10 readings, one reading in each of the topics 2-11 (inclusive) in the course. Your response must include a visual component and a short 100 (min) - 250 (max) word text that explains how the image relates to the reading that you selected. The expression in the text is not being explicitly assessed, so please do not spend too long crafting this text. The purpose of including the text is to explain why you chose the image and how it links to the reading. This response (image and text) will be shared with all students in the course. Each student submission that satisfies the assessment criteria for a topic will receive 2 marks, for a total of 20 marks where all 10 responses are submitted. Further, for each topic, students in the course may vote for the submission which they believe best addresses the criteria. The student submission with the most votes by 11 pm on the day that topic was scheduled will receive one extra bonus mark.

Nature of Task: Compulsory and non-redeemable. Failure to complete any of the response will result in a 0 for this task.

Weighting: 20%

Release: The readings are identified in the course wattle site from the start of the course, and submissions may be made at any time up until 12 noon on the day the topic is scheduled. However, it is recommended that students wait to submit their response until after they have listened to the recorded lecture on that topic before finalising this task. This is because the recorded lecture will explain and contextualise the readings. You may find this explanation useful in developing and deepening the ideas that you draw on for each of your creative responses.

Length: Each submission includes one image (photo) and 100 - 250 (max) explanation x 10.

Due date: Ongoing. The response must be posted by 12 noon on the relevant wattle discussion board on the same day that the topic is scheduled in the summary of activities. Due to the nature of the assessment, late submissions without an extension will not be accepted. (If you enrol in the course late, please- contact me to organise how you will make up the missed days).

Estimated Return Date: 25 May via Wattle grade book.

Assessment Criteria: The task will be assessed on the extent to which it

1. Creatively engages with one of the readings in a topic
2. Captures at least one idea relevant to one of the readings in a topic
3. Furthers the viewers understanding of that idea and/or its implications

Assessment Task 2

Group creative response to a topic

Details of Task: In small groups of 3-5 students (depending on the number of enrolments), you will produce a creative response to one of the topics 2-10 (inclusive). This will involve considerable work on the day of the topic that you choose, so make sure that this is a day that you are relatively free and available for the entire day. Groups will meet online around lunchtime (12 - 2pm) to discuss the topic, the readings, and the submitted student creative responses. The group will plan and devise a creative response to bring this material together in an engaging way. The group response should be to the topic as a whole, and address selected parts of the reading, the themes and issues raised by the topic generally, and explore the questions and consequences of the topic. The group response should be in the form of a presentation of approximately 15 mins (although no longer than 20 mins). This can be recorded, or it can be live. The presentations (there will be two group presentations each evening) will be shown to the class at 7 pm, followed by a whole-class discussion for another 10-20 mins. (The presentations and the discussion will be recorded, but only for assessment purposes. They will not be available for the class to view later unless there are exceptional reasons which excuse a student from attending.) Your group will also need to provide a written bibliography, with a complete list of resources used/ referred to, including any visual or other materials. After the seminar finished at 8.30 pm, there will be a private opportunity for a group and individual debrief with the convener. After the debriefs, each individual will be expected to submit a short self and a group-evaluation in writing (a template will be given to you to complete this task). This will be due by 12 midnight.

Nature of Task: Compulsory and non-redeemable. Failure to participate in a group creative response will result in 0 marks for this assessment task.

Weighting: 15%

Release: A list of the topics and related readings and questions will be available via the course wattle site from the start of the course. Your assigned topic will be negotiated in the first class. If you are unable to attend the first class, please email your 3 preferences (and any time constraints) to me and I will endeavor to take those preferences and constraints into account. The group members for each topic will be confirmed by 3 pm the first day of class (Monday 4 May). If you join the course after this Monday, please contact me immediately so you can be assigned a group.

Due date: The meeting, the presentation, the debrief and the self-evaluation must all be completed on the same day. Due to the nature of the assessment, late submissions without an extension will not be accepted. If you have grounds that would justify an extension, you will be given another opportunity to present later in the course with a different group, where this is possible. The meeting needs to be held as soon as possible after 12 noon on the day the topic is scheduled. The presentation will be submitted via Wattle dropbox by 7 pm that same day. All members of the group will also need to attend the seminar that evening, and schedule in for a group and individual debrief after the seminar. The self and group assessment will be submitted via the Wattle drop box by 12 midnight that night.

Estimated Return Date: 25 May via Wattle email.

Assessment Criteria: This is a group assessment and each member of the group will receive the same mark unless there are compelling reasons to depart from this approach. Compelling reasons may emerge from either the presentation, the group debrief, the individual debrief, or the individual written group and self-evaluations. This may result in a lower (or higher) mark for the individual component between members in the same group.

Group presentation (10 marks)

1. Creativity in approach to the group presentation
2. Ability to generate audience discussion and engagement
3. Cohesiveness of the group presentation
4. Critical engagement with the topic
5. Insightful engagement with the reading
6. Ability to explain clearly (selected) aspects of the different readings for that topic
7. Ability to draw links and connections between the topic, issues and its consequences
8. The extent to which the presentation articulates interesting perspectives on the topic
9. Quality of engagement with the Q&A session

Individual contribution to group work (5 marks)

1. Ability to work constructively in a group (facilitating the contributions of others)
2. Quality of contributions made to the group in their chosen group role
3. Preparedness for the group task
4. Equality of time committed to the group task

Assessment Task 3

Research paper and presentation

Details of Task: A research paper (and presentation) on a topic of your choice. You will be expected to confirm your topic in the last class (22/5), where you will discuss generally your focus, the main theoretical approach, and 5 key articles which you will draw upon. There is no penalty for failure to confirm your topic and you may still submit your assignment, however, it would be a lost opportunity for early feedback and direction. The presentation should not just be a reading of your paper, but a creative presentation of your arguments and ideas.

Nature of Task: Compulsory and non-redeemable. Failure to complete the research paper and presentation will result in a 0.

Release: You can begin your paper at any time.

Weighting: Research paper (45%) and presentation (10%) = 55%

Length: The research assignment is 2,000 words. The presentation length is 5 - 7 mins.

Due date: Both tasks are due on Wednesday 17 June at 5pm. The research assignment should be submitted via Turnitin, and a recording of your presentation should be submitted via Wattle dropbox. Late submission without an extension for either and/ or the presentation is permitted, although late penalties will apply to the task overall until both components are submitted.

Estimated Return Date: 3 July 2020.

Assessment Criteria:

Written paper (50 marks)

1. Quality of written expression
2. Clarity of explanation of ideas (theory/ substantive law/ policy)
3. Sophistication and depth of analysis
4. Degree to which the assignment generates interesting perspectives
5. Clarity of argument/ position
6. The persuasiveness of argument/ position
7. Engagement with key concepts/ readings or theories covered in the course

Presentation (10 marks)

1. Creativity in approach suited to a presentation
2. Clarity of expression of key ideas (theoretical and/ or legal)
3. Degree of analytical insight into key ideas (theoretical and/ or legal)
4. The extent to which the presentation articulates interesting perspectives on the topic
5. Clarity of argument/ position
6. The persuasiveness of argument/ position

Assessment Task 4

Participation in an (online) event

Details of Task: We will be showcasing your research presentations by curating the recordings and presenting them via an online event. The format, length, date, delivery, and focus of the event, as well as the roles each student should have, will be negotiated by the class as a whole and decided upon in the last session of the course (Friday 22 May). You will be expected to attend that first session and any further meetings (a minimum of 2 hours at times to be negotiated) or, contribute the equivalent time by providing ideas/ feedback in other forms if you are unable to attend any or all of those planning meetings.

Nature of Task: Compulsory and non-redeemable. Failure to complete to participate in the online event (planning, organisation, and delivery) will result in a 0 for this task.

Weighting: 10%

Release: We will discuss this event in the first class, and set up a means of sharing ideas throughout the course. We will make decisions about the event and assign roles in the planning meetings that will be set up throughout the course.

Length: There is no specific length although at various times you may need to either attend a meeting or alternatively make contributions in writing and send them in beforehand (including if you are unable to attend a meeting). Depending on your role, you may also need to be available to engage in the online event itself. The dates/ times for the online event will be negotiated with students but will be held sometime between 20 -30 June.

Due date: Ongoing. The last date for contributions to this task will be the date of the online event.

Estimated Return Date: 3 July 2020.

Assessment Criteria:

1. Quality of your contributions in relation to the planning of the online event
2. Quality of your contributions in relation to organisation of the online event
3. The extent to which you fulfilled the responsibilities your role in the event with professionalism
4. The degree to which you fostered a positive group environment (enthusiasm, interest, creative ideas)
5. Quality of your contributions in relation to evaluating the success of the event
6. The success of the event (judged by the evaluations received)

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a core part of the ANU culture as a community of scholars. At its heart, academic integrity is about behaving ethically, committing to honest and responsible scholarly practice and upholding these values with respect and fairness.

The ANU commits to assisting all members of our community to understand how to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support academic integrity. The ANU expects staff and students to be familiar with the academic integrity principle and Academic Misconduct Rule, uphold high standards of academic integrity and act ethically and honestly, to ensure the quality and value of the qualification that you will graduate with.

The Academic Misconduct Rule is in place to promote academic integrity and manage academic misconduct. Very minor breaches of the academic integrity principle may result in a reduction of marks of up to 10% of the total marks available for the assessment. The ANU offers a number of online and in person services to assist students with their assignments, examinations, and other learning activities. Visit the Academic Skills website for more information about academic integrity, your responsibilities and for assistance with your assignments, writing skills and study.

Online Submission

You will be required to electronically sign a declaration as part of the submission of your assignment. Please keep a copy of the assignment for your records. Unless an exemption has been approved by the Associate Dean (Education) submission must be through Turnitin.

Hardcopy Submission

For some forms of assessment (hand written assignments, art works, laboratory notes, etc.) hard copy submission is appropriate when approved by the Associate Dean (Education). Hard copy submissions must utilise the Assignment Cover Sheet. Please keep a copy of tasks completed for your records.

Late Submission

Individual assessment tasks may or may not allow for late submission. Policy regarding late submission is detailed below:

• Late submission not permitted. If submission of assessment tasks without an extension after the due date is not permitted, a mark of 0 will be awarded.
• Late submission permitted. Late submission of assessment tasks without an extension are penalised at the rate of 5% of the possible marks available per working day or part thereof. Late submission of assessment tasks is not accepted after 10 working days after the due date, or on or after the date specified in the course outline for the return of the assessment item. Late submission is not accepted for take-home examinations.

Referencing Requirements

Accepted academic practice for referencing sources that you use in presentations can be found via the links on the Wattle site, under the file named “ANU and College Policies, Program Information, Student Support Services and Assessment”. Alternatively, you can seek help through the Students Learning Development website.

Extensions and Penalties

Extensions and late submission of assessment pieces are covered by the Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure. Extensions may be granted for assessment pieces that are not examinations or take-home examinations. If you need an extension, you must request an extension in writing on or before the due date. If you have documented and appropriate medical evidence that demonstrates you were not able to request an extension on or before the due date, you may be able to request it after the due date.

Privacy Notice

The ANU has made a number of third party, online, databases available for students to use. Use of each online database is conditional on student end users first agreeing to the database licensor’s terms of service and/or privacy policy. Students should read these carefully. In some cases student end users will be required to register an account with the database licensor and submit personal information, including their: first name; last name; ANU email address; and other information.
In cases where student end users are asked to submit ‘content’ to a database, such as an assignment or short answers, the database licensor may only use the student’s ‘content’ in accordance with the terms of service – including any (copyright) licence the student grants to the database licensor. Any personal information or content a student submits may be stored by the licensor, potentially offshore, and will be used to process the database service in accordance with the licensors terms of service and/or privacy policy.
If any student chooses not to agree to the database licensor’s terms of service or privacy policy, the student will not be able to access and use the database. In these circumstances students should contact their lecturer to enquire about alternative arrangements that are available.

Distribution of grades policy

Academic Quality Assurance Committee monitors the performance of students, including attrition, further study and employment rates and grade distribution, and College reports on quality assurance processes for assessment activities, including alignment with national and international disciplinary and interdisciplinary standards, as well as qualification type learning outcomes.

Since first semester 1994, ANU uses a grading scale for all courses. This grading scale is used by all academic areas of the University.

Support for students

The University offers students support through several different services. You may contact the services listed below directly or seek advice from your Course Convener, Student Administrators, or your College and Course representatives (if applicable).

• ANU Health, safety & wellbeing for medical services, counselling, mental health and spiritual support
• ANU Diversity and inclusion for students with a disability or ongoing or chronic illness
• ANU Dean of Students for confidential, impartial advice and help to resolve problems between students and the academic or administrative areas of the University
• ANU Academic Skills and Learning Centre supports you make your own decisions about how you learn and manage your workload.
• ANU Counselling Centre promotes, supports and enhances mental health and wellbeing within the University student community.
• ANUSA supports and represents undergraduate and ANU College students
• PARSA supports and represents postgraduate and research students