The Worlds of Oceania and Southeast Asia

This self-paced online mini-course offers 7th grade social studies teachers (or any interested educator) an introduction to the geography, settlement, material cultures and innovations of early Pacific societies. Each session is designed with preparatory readings, viewings and teachable resources that participants examine prior to watching a 90-minute scholar presentation. Session 1 highlights the history of Oceania, including its economic and trade relations and the multi-layered effects of colonization on its peoples and history. Session 2 introduces the ancient kingdoms and empires of Southeast Asia’s vast archipelagos and broad river valleys, using the 3rd-6th century Funan kingdom (Mekong Delta) and 7th-11th century Srivijaya empire (Sumatra) as case studies. Session 3 offers a general introduction to Australian archaeology and material culture, addressing major