Taking a knowledge systems approach in the classroom: Some dos and don’ts

In this recorded session we hear from Pauline Waiti, Lian Soh and Rosemary Hipkins as they explore ideas about mātauranga and science in the classroom.

From the presenters

This webinar draws on our collective experiences to offer advice about bringing together mātauranga Māori and science knowledge in classroom learning experiences. A set of principles developed by scientists working in collaboration with indigenous experts will underpin the points made. We will use specific examples to support the discussion. Clarifying what we understand mātauranga Māori to mean is an important first step. Outlining a clear rationale comes next: what is our purpose for introducing mātauranga Māori, and why it is important? Building awareness of what we don’t yet know, learning with an open mind, is a big challenge.

This professional learning discussion will support you to reflect on your own experiences and provide prompts for thinking about the future inclusion of mātauranga into your teaching programme.

I was very inspired. The webinar has definitely stoked my ahi to new heights! As Sir James Henare once said, ‘We have done too much not to do more, we have come to far not to go further.’

Teacher

You can download the video and slideshow presentation.

Index

The presenters

Pauline Waiti: Director at Ahu Whakamua Ltd. As an experienced science teacher, Pauline was involved in the development of the Pūtaiao curriculum to sit alongside NZC. She has worked as Māori Development Manager at Learning Media and as Te Wāhanga Māori Manager at NZCER. Pauline provides a Māori educational perspective and deep understanding of Māori-medium education in New Zealand.

Lian Soh: Science and chemistry teacher at Pāpāmoa College and 2023 Kudos finalist for both the Science Teacher and Vision Mātauranga categories. Lian has worked to weave mātauranga into his teaching programmes in respectful and inclusive ways. He is an incredibly active and supportive part of the science education community.

Rosemary Hipkins: Chief Researcher ❘ Kei Hautū Rangahau at NZCER. In her first career she was a teacher of science and biology before moving into teacher education and then research. Rose has a strong interest in the intersection of assessment and curriculum. She has been involved in studies of key competencies, NCEA, and most recently, complex systems thinking.