Understanding te ao Maori

Maor#5050

The courseExplores the traditional and contemporary development of Maori society Engaged through exposure and experiences the teacher/learner relationship. • Visits to important Maori sites in Tamaki

Makaurau• Maori film and documentaries• Maori Lecturers and storytellers• Maori artists• Students are encouraged to explore their

identity and engage in the Maori world drawing from their own world view

The students2012

Learning from Technology Accounting for the mana o te tangata Naturalising indigenous language and cultureValidating learning to placeBenefiting from group diversityIntegrating tikanga marae

Modes of engagement

Holistic approachLifelong learningExperiential Maori knowledge is the essenceSpiritually orientatedLearning is a communal activity bound by whanaungatangaIntegrates Maori & Western knowledge

Indigenous Philosophy of learning

Maori expression is normalisedMaori values and practices are experiencedThe wairua (spirit) is nourishedIndigenous language is revitalisedIdentity is strengthenedDifferent worldviews are appreciated and respected

The marae learning experience

Student reflections

I bring what I know to the learning context. But that does not mean I always know best. In recognition of the gaps in knowledge I realise now it is not a fault or a weakness . As educators and life long learners not knowing everything should not diminish us but empower us. Sometimes I am the teacher and other times I am the learner. If I come away from the teaching experience having learnt some thing new from my students then I have done something right

Teacher reflections

“How difficult is the task of Educator? No matter where this kind of educator works ….the great adventure – is how to make education something which, in being serious, rigorous, methodical, and having a process, also creates happiness and joy.”Paulo Friere (will locate date)