National Teaching & Learning Conference - Day 1 afternoon

Sir Mason Durie's, vice chancellor - maori & pacifica studies - Massey university, presentation Maori student success addressing determinants of sucess in order to achieve best outcomes for Maori students through positive learning enviroments. tertiary ed delivers dual benefits of personal and societal.

Began with an overview of how Maori educational transformation since 1984 starting with the emergence of the Kura Kaupapa Maori and Whare Kura (kohanga reo movement). following that educational policies which recognise Maori aspirations and knowledge increased choices for Maori. Availability of multiple tertiary education pathways also assisted as did information derived from the building of research capability. Participation rate of Maori in tertiary education now higher than average (over 20% compared to just under 15%) although higher partipation rate with female Maoris( 2/3 - 1/3), generally students are 'older'.

Determinants of success include macro (social) variables, learners, teaching institutes and teacher attributes. Post-treaty Iwi aspirations will lead to a change in present relationships between Maori and govt./others. In next 25 years, there will be a move to grow capability and to harness resources which will lead to an emphasis on education to meet future objectives. Best outcomes need to NOT only be measured in academic outcomes, other outcomes include collegial networks, personal, career and cultural. The learning environment is an important contributor to better student outcomes, should include campus experience, modes of learning, generic support and whanau (wider family) support. Suggest engagement (whakapiri), enlighten (whakamarama) and empower (whakamana) students important. engagment needs to be a two way process (bilateral). enlightenment includes cultural enrichment, healthy lifestyle, learning outcomes/intellectual insights and social cohesion. empowerments involves attainment of a qualification which has worth in society including career and leadership opportunities.

Govt. policies indicate need to target qualified students (less open entry), less opportunities for second chance learners, more blended learning, higher expectations of students and perhaps working towards more than one qualification plus a moved to student centred learning. Some movement now with collaborative programmes between tertiary institutes and Iwi.

Panel discussion on Maori ways of knowing followed chaired by Ian Rowe, operations manager from Ako Aotearoa Central Hub. Panel included Sir Mason and staff and students from UCOL. Questions arouse in response to govt. direction as detailed by Hon. Steve Joyce this morning and the recommendations proposed in Sir Mason's presentation. For instance, outcomes need to be viewed wider than just completion of qualification but encompasse other aspects of personal growth and social contribution.