The Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has teamed with an education service to produce free online resources for schools exploring Australia’s democratic freedoms.
The partnership, between the AHRC and education not-for-profit, Cool Australia, has launched The Story of Our Rights and Freedoms curriculum unit to coincide with the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
President of the AHRC, Rosalind Croucher said the 18-lesson unit for Years 7 to 10 would broaden students’ understanding of democracy and its function throughout history with a captivating curriculum for history and civics and citizenship classes.
“All lessons include videos and activities about human rights with a focus on relevant legislation and particular issues that affect individuals and groups both locally and internationally,” Professor Croucher said.
“One of the core functions of the Australian Human Rights Commission is to promote an understanding and public discussion in Australia about rights and responsibilities in relation to human rights.”
She said this newest series of resources would support Australian teachers and students to deepen their understanding of the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and some of the other core elements that underpin the protection of rights and freedoms in Australia.
Founder and Managing Director of Cool Australia, Jason Kimberley said The Story of Our Rights and Freedoms would build 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, team work, communication and creative thinking.
