From Tension to Resonance:Globalization and Localism in an Australian Context

Globalization takes our eyes, interests and consumption patterns, to broader fields.However the rise of globalization also prompts a counter-interest in regionalism/localism, a rediscovery of place, and also to some degree a rediscovery ofcommunity. In this tension between global and the local, the nation state appears as both less empowered and also emerging as a key mid-way arbiter. Curriculum inAustralia, since the s, has increased its focus on the national, with some variationfor the six states which have constitutional responsibility for curriculum. In the current decade, curriculum has rapidly moved to address issues of globalization, buthas been less certain in its addressing of the interest in local studies. The current political agenda is proceeding towards national curricula. In its teacher-educationprogram for the preparation of Primary school teachers, Southern Cross University has an innovative approach to addressing global/local issues-one that draws upon tools from well outside the region to enhance study of the local