A major focus of this unit is to develop what Freire called conscientisation, or heightened socio political awareness. Through this lens students will explore the range of definitions associated with the term 'culture' including gender, disability, religion, sexuality and ethnicity. Importantly, they will be encouraged to examine personal, structural and cultural racism as it exists in Australia and more broadly internationally. The political context and purpose of exclusion and marginalisation are examined. In addition, specific cultural competencies are explored and developed.

Learning outcomes: At the completion of this unit a student should be able to:
1. Articulate the psychological frameworks for understanding and working with people from different cultural backgrounds.
2. Identify the interplay of cultural and socio-political factors contributing to the development of our own and other people's world views.
3. Gain increased awareness about our own cultural influences to transcend our worldview and embrace diversity in research and practice.