This course, one of 16 sequential courses comprising phase one of a part-time Bachelor of Arts degree program in Australian Studies, illustrates that the concept of work has not been a universal or historically consistent category. Some of the distinctive features of work in the Western world are covered, along with some effects of the Industrial Revolution on modern forms of work. This course is designed for independent study combined with tutorial sessions. Chapter 1 is an introduction to the course and its study objectives. Chapter 2, "Work as a Problem," deals with what distinguishes work from nonwork. Chapter 3, "Work in Traditional Societies," covers traditional economics. Chapter 4 deals with the impact of the Industrial Revolution on work. Chapter 5, "Time and Work in Traditional and Modern Societies," deals with labor, wages, and social change. Materials for the first tutorial deal with topics covered in chapters 1-3; the second tutorial is directed toward the remaining chapters and test preparation. Also included are lists of required readings, additional readings, a bibliography, and self-assessment questions. (IS)