The Transformative Role Of Iwi Knowledge

The Transformative Role of Iwi Knowledge and Genealogy in Māori Student Success

Abstract

• Iwi (tribal) knowledge systems hold narratives about the past, present, and future.

• These narratives prioritize distinct languages, worldviews, teachings, and technologies.

• Education can use the achievements of ancestors to empower Māori students, countering stereotype threat.

• The Ka Awatea Project examined Māori student success through an iwi lens, emphasizing local history and icons.

• Prioritizing iwi knowledge supports educational transformation and reform in local high schools.

Introduction

• English-medium schools often do not recognize Māori perspectives or ancestors as role models.

• Māori view themselves as descendants of great thinkers, with an emphasis on strengths over deficits.

• There is a strong cultural emphasis on education as a means to uplift the community and fulfill aspirations.

• Successful education must respect Māori identities and encourage contextual learning.

Māori Student Success

Connection Between Identity and Achievement

• Strong positive Māori identity correlates with better educational outcomes.

• Positive Māori identity encompasses self-identification, cultural proficiency, and community binding (whānau, hapū, iwi).

• The notion of whakapapa (genealogy) is crucial for identity formation and belonging.

• Social connectedness can lead to better academic functioning and resilience in adverse circumstances.

Current Educational Statistics and Gaps

• Despite improvements, gaps in achievement persist between Māori and non-Māori students.

• For instance, NCEA Level 2 achievement for Māori in 2015 was 62.2% compared to 90.6% for Asian and 83% for European students.

• Māori students participate less in standardized assessments compared to peers.

Educational Strategies and Initiatives

Ka Hikitia Strategy

• Focused on enhancing Māori educational success and incorporating Māori identity, language, and culture in schools.

• Key actions include engaging teaching approaches, setting high expectations, and strengthening whānau-community-school partnerships.

• Recommendations have emerged for better understanding of Māori success through cultural frameworks and data collection.

Te Kotahitanga and He Kākano Initiatives

• Te Kotahitanga emphasizes power-sharing and cultural responsiveness in schools.

• He Kākano develops culturally responsive leadership practices aimed at improving outcomes for Māori learners.

• The Starpath project revealed persistent differences in educational success linked to socioeconomic backgrounds.

• Kia Eke Panuku focuses on using data to promote positive changes within educational settings.

Conditions Required for Māori Student Success

Mana: Five Key Themes

• Mana Whānau: Importance of supportive family structures that prioritize education and learning.

• Mana Motuhake: Developing a strong sense of identity through cultural proficiency and connection to ancestry.

• Mana Tū: Instilling resilience, courage, and a positive self-image in Māori students.

• Mana Ūkaipo: Emphasizing the importance of place and belonging in educational contexts.

• Mana Tangatarua: Navigating multiple identities effectively within different cultural settings.

Role of Iwi Knowledge and Historical Icons

Significance of Te Arawa Icons

• Historical exemplars serve as role models for current students and are linked to specific characteristics of success.

• The qualities derived from the past provide insight into contemporary paths of achievement.

• Key qualities include identity, tenacity, scholarship, relationships, innovation, humility, and well-being.

Educational Transformation Initiatives

Iwi-Led Programs

• Te Rangihakahaka and Matakōkiri initiatives focus on integrating iwi knowledge into educational practices.

• These programs include professional development for teachers and culturally relevant learning opportunities for students.

• Place-Based Learning (PBL) enhances connections between education and local cultural contexts, fostering community involvement.

Conclusion

• Positive Māori identity is essential for students’ educational success and social engagement.

• Collective responsibility from whānau, schools, and communities is necessary for nurturing Māori learners.

• The development of mana tangata emphasizes both individual potential and contributions to the collective well-being.

• Engagement of iwi in educational contexts is crucial for affirming and embedding Māori cultural identities.