PDF (Whole Thesis) - USQ ePrints - University of Southern ...

more likely scenario is that history has declined for a variety of reasons. (Taylor,
2000, Ch. 2, p. 6)
The controversy surrounding the SOSE Syllabus was so significant, due in no small part to
the widespread misinterpretation of this Syllabus from the time of implementation that the
Queensland Studies Authority (QSA) took the proactive step of refuting some of the
comments reported by The Courier Mail. This is an unusual activity to occur over a syllabus,
but is a testimony to the controversy and confusion that has encompassed it. The eight-page
response presented a detailed look at the information presented to the public, and then
proceeded to offer “the verifiable facts” (QSA, 2000, p. 1), taking away the vague content of
attacks on the curriculum by presenting information taken directly from the Syllabus. A
dominant feature in the response by the QSA was to clear up the misconceptions which had
been generated by journalists who misunderstood that this Syllabus does not set down a
prescribed curriculum, but rather offers flexibility, enabling teachers to determine the content
to be taught, provided this meets the requirements of the SOSE Syllabus outcomes. For
example, in responding to claims that figures of national historical importance like Sir Robert
Menzies and Lieutenant/Captain James Cook are not included in the SOSE Syllabus the QSA
states:
The Years 1 to 10 Studies of Society and Environment (SOSE) syllabus emphasises
the study of a range of key concepts, such as ‘people and contributions’...The
individuals mentioned by the article are taken out of context. Within the syllabus,
names are provided only as examples that teachers could choose...Other examples
not cited by Thomas include Matthew Flinders, John Flynn, Michelangelo and King
John. Other curriculum support materials available on the Council website included
reference to many more individuals. (QSA, 2000, p. 1)
In addition to the QSA writing to defend the SOSE syllabus, the Parents and Friends
Association (PANDF) also wrote to dispel the myths perpetrated by The Courier Mail. In
discussing the new approaches to education, the response states:
The consultative approach of the Queensland School Curriculum Council to
curriculum development is to be applauded. There will always be criticism of
organisations who seek new ways of discovery. A system that promotes the status
quo is one doomed to failure and despair. We must give our children, our, future,
483