Introducing the Tertiary History Educators Australasia (THEA) [Editorial]
Abstract
This editorial introduces the Tertiary History Educators Australasia (THEA), a collaborative network established in 2018 to advance research and practice in history education across Australia and the Pacific. Originating from a University of Newcastle symposium, THEA seeks to foster a community of practice among tertiary educators while strengthening connections with school teachers and public history contexts. The editorial situates history education within broader pedagogical, political, and cultural frameworks, emphasising the role of public history in shaping historical understanding through museums, media, and experiential learning. It outlines contributions in the special issue, which collectively explore key themes such as historical thinking, epistemic frameworks, student historical consciousness, empathy, and innovative pedagogies. These studies highlight the importance of critical inquiry, plural perspectives, and active citizenship. The editorial underscores THEA’s long-term goals of scholarly collaboration, curriculum influence, and the development of a cohesive academic voice for history education.