Social Sciences Week

This event brings together academics from across a range of disciplines to engage in meaningful discussions and collaborative efforts towards a more just and secure society for women. Join RMIT academic experts as they share knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions to help promote and protect the rights and wellbeing of women: Dr Leila Afshari (Management) Associate Professor Brianna Chesser (Criminology and Justice) Dr Bronwyn Coate (Economics) Dr Rojan Afrouz (Social Work) Moderated by Professor Lisa French. Tuesday 10 September Time: 10.30-11.30am Online via Teams

Social Sciences Week is a celebration of research, but researchers were once students. Social Scientists do not often reflect on their days as ‘trainees’ in educational settings. In the rush to know more about the state of our societies, political systems and economies, researchers can downplay the importance of teaching the next generation of professionals, scholars and other experts. This event features several academics from the University of Sydney’s School of Social and Political Sciences, all of whom are active researchers and passionately committed teachers who will reflect on the ‘teaching-research nexus’. How does their research influence their teaching, and how does their teaching influence their research? What do they love about each of the two spheres, and how do they achieve a symbiotic relationship between them? Are there ever points of friction between research and teaching, and if so, what strategies do these academics employ to manage the inconsistencies for the benefit of students? Chair: Professor Gaby Ramia (Chair), Deputy Head of School (Research) Panel Members: Associate Professor Susan Banki, Sociology and Criminology Dr Minglu Chen, Government and International Relations Professor Alex Lefebvre, Philosophy and Government and International Relations Dr Eyal Mayroz, Sociology and Criminology Professor Brendon O’Connor, US Studies and Government and International Relations […]

A Social Sciences Week special event Tuesday 10 September | 5pm arrival for 6pm start National Library of Australia In an era where social media shapes our interactions and perceptions, the lines between connection and division have never been more blurred. With rising concerns about misinformation, online bans and the impact of digital echo chambers, we must ask: is social media bringing us together or tearing us apart? Join us at the National Library of Australia for an evening of compelling debate as academics and authors Professor Lisa Given and Distinguished Professor Anthony Elliott AM tackle this pressing question. Guided by former Seriously Social podcast host and journalist Ginger Gorman, our speakers will delve into the complexities of our digital age, exploring whether social media is a force for unity or division. Don’t miss this thought-provoking event, packed with engaging discussions and opportunities for audience participation. Proudly presented by the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia and the National Library of Australia, the Great Debate promises an evening that will challenge your perspectives and ignite your curiosity. Ticket includes canapes on arrival (from 5pm). The debate will begin at 6pm, followed by Q&A.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Stephen Elliott’s 1994 masterpiece, ‘The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.’ To celebrate, join us for a spectacular screening at RMIT’s fabulously fitting venue, The Capitol. The event will feature an introductory panel discussion with: Tim Chappel – The film’s Oscar-winning costume designer Rebel Penfold-Russell – Executive producer Cerise Howard – Melbourne Queer Film Festival Program Director and esteemed film aficionado Kristy Kokegei – History Trust of South Australia Stephen Gaunson – RMIT University Since its initial screening 30 years ago, this multi award-winning film has had a significant impact on society and become internationally renowned as a symbol of freedom and support for the LGBTQIA+ community. Written and directed by Elliott, ‘Priscilla’ follows the road-tripping adventures of two drag queens and a transgender woman, played by Hugo Weaving, Guy Pearce, and Terence Stamp, as the trio cross the Australian desert from Sydney to Alice Springs. Presented in partnership with RMIT’s Social Change Enabling Impact Platform and RMIT Culture, as part of the Academy of the Social Sciences of Australia’s Social Sciences Week. Language: English Country: AUS Year: 1994 Duration: 1hr 44m Format: DCP Image credit: Still, ‘The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen […]