Effective teachers

Culturally responsive learning contexts are those where the learner can bring their own experiences into the classroom context. (Extract from ‘Te ManaKōrero: Relationships for Learning’, 2007).

Research shows that bringing cultural context into the curriculum affirms the students identity, and validates their cultural knowledge and knowledge of their whānau. (Extract from ‘Te ManaKōrero: Relationships for Learning’, 2007).

Practitioners reflect on the impact of professional development that is focused on improving Māori learning outcomes. (Extract from ‘Te Mana Kōrero : Strengthening Professional Practice’, 2005).

The innovative use of ICT can be used to enhance professional development. Pakaraka School has created an environment where everyone is a learner. It uses ICT to capture the weekly lesson of a visiting teacher of Te Reo Māori. (Extract from ‘Te ManaKōrero: Strengthening Professional Practice’, 2005).

A feature of effective professional learning is critical reflection on practice. At Greymouth High School and Waitara Primary School, teachers are opening up their classrooms to others for peer observation and feedback. (Extract from ‘Te ManaKōrero: Strengthening Professional Practice’, 2005).

Rotorua Lakes High School and neighbouring Mokoia Intermediate have established a collaborative learning community where they share professional development opportunities. The process of developing better relationships with students began with asking the students what the issues were. (Extract from ‘Te ManaKōrero: Strengthening Professional Practice’, 2005).

What are the key features of professional development that strengthens Māori student learning outcomes, and what effect has that had on teacher practice? (Extract from ‘Te ManaKōrero: Strengthening Professional Practice’, 2005).

At Ruawai Primary School and Kapiti College, whānau knowledge is valued as teachers construct contexts for learning that reflect the cultural significance and history of their location.

At Whangarei Intermediate, teacher Joe Beaumont works to create a classroom environment which is both supportive and challenging. The focus is on ensuring that every student sees what they are capable of achieving.

At Rotorua Lakes High School maths teacher Tony Renshaw has changed what is going on in his classroom to encourage Māori student participation and achievement.