Hei Tauira - for example by example

It was a privilege this week to join 78 staff from Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) during their Professional Development Celebration of Learning Day, as the University of Canterbury’s Associate Professor Janinka Greenwood and Lynne-Harata Te Aika presented an overview of their research, Hei Tauira - for example by example.

The aim of the study is to investigate tauira, exemplars, of success for Māori in tertiary education. Through four case studies Janinka and Lynne-Harata have identified five principles that contribute to this success. These principles will be of relevance not only to teachers of Māori learners but to all educators as they look to enhancing student learning.

• Toko ā iwi, toko ā wānanga – support of the institution is essential if processes are going to work
• Pūkenga – leadership plays a major role in creating an environment conducive to Māori success
• Ako – it is important to develop effective learning and teaching strategies
• Tikanga – seen as vital by iwi and by Māori students as an indicator of the programme’s cultural integrity
• Huakina – opening up the door and strategic removal of barriers to students

In conjunction with the researchers, Ako Aotearoa has produced a 14 page document that highlights the main features of Hei Tauira Teaching and Learning for Success for Māori in Tertiary Settings, together with a one page summary.

The full research report, together with the highlights and one page summary will be officially launched by the Hon Dr Pita Sharples in Christchurch on Friday 19 February. After this date the material can be viewed on our website.

(Image: Lynne-Harata Te Aika, NMIT's Graham Bell, Janinka Greenwood)