Graduate Attribute 03

 

Honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi by integrating its principles into their teaching practice.

 

A citizen of Aotearoa/New Zealand with roots tracing back only three generations in this country, I affirm the importance of the Treaty of Waitangi to the ongoing development and care of this bicultural land and of its people - encompassing:

• the broad principles of Protection, Participation and Partnership (the "three P's")

• Mason Durie's more specific visions for Maori Education, i.e. to live as a Maori, to actively participate as citizens of the world, and to enjoy good health and a high standard of living 

• To teach in a way that supports the Otago Polytechnic Maori Strategic Framework, in particular Priority Three (to have Maori participate and succeed at all levels of learning) and Priority Five (an Inclusive Learning Environment).

 

Participation

Particularly important in an educational institution, given the significance of having an education and of the resulting employment opportunities. In the Aotearoa of 2016, participation in education to the fullest of one's ability, needs and wishes is a vital component of ensuring the success in employment that we all need and deserve. If Maori are not participating and succeeding in education, their chances of employment success are greatly limited.

In my teaching, I endeavour to help fulfill this by encouraging Maori class members to take part fully in class activities and by ensuring that learning and assessment instructions are clear and accessible. Where possible, I encourage learners (Maori and non-Maori alike) to consider topics and practices from a Maori persepctive.

 

Partnership

True partnership is a challenge, one that we must meet and one that requires respect, good fatith, tolerance, honesty and co-operation from all concerned. Too often efforts in this area result in tokenism or lip service - for real partnership, both partners must have equal rights and benefits and power.

Although there is a long way to go, it is encouraging to see strong efforts being made in an institution such as Otago Polytechnic with initiatives such as:

• the Maori Strategic Framework

• the development of a new Maori Centre, with the Tumuaki role being part of the OP Council

• Maori representation on the leadership team (Kaitohutohu role)

For a 'trickle-down' effect of these initiatives, and to truly help Maori achieve their aspirations, it is important for teachers such as myself to fully engage with and support the resulting policies and activities. In this way I can demonstrate the respect for and committment to my Maori partners (learners, colleagues, community). 

 

As shown in the Whakakaha te Hoataka 2014 (Maori Annual Report), there are very encouraging signs in student and staff satisfaction, however Maori Qualification Completion rates are still well short of rates for other students.