Tuhia ki te rangi : teaching and learning practices to support the development of academic writing capabilities of foundation Ākonga Māori : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Education at Massey University, Te Kunenga ki Purehuroa, New Zealand
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Date
2024
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Massey University
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Academic writing is essential for success in tertiary education, yet ākonga Māori continue to face barriers and challenges that impact their writing potential. This is particularly evident in the Hikitia te Ora Certificate in Health Sciences programme, where there is a growing need for additional support in academic reading and writing. This qualitative study, grounded in Kaupapa Māori methodology, aims to identify key factors that enhance the teaching and learning of academic writing skills for ākonga Māori in foundation programmes. The research involved semi‐structured interviews with three pouako Māori (teachers/educators with Māori ancestry) and a focus group of nine ākonga Māori who had completed the programme in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at Waipapa Taumata Rau. Thematic analysis revealed three central themes: challenges in academic writing, supporting factors for writing development, and the role of culturally responsive teaching. These themes informed the creation of four instructional strategies: (1) Use culturally responsive teaching and learning practices, (2) Provide a culturally inclusive and safe learning environment, (3) Use relevant, fun, and interactive learning activities, and (4) Provide comprehensive resources to support learning. This study provides practical strategies for pouako and tertiary institutions to enhance the academic writing capabilities of ākonga Māori, contributing to the development of more inclusive and effective teaching practices. The insights derived from this research also serve as a valuable resource for other tertiary institutions in Aotearoa (New Zealand) and beyond, aiming to enhance academic writing skills among Māori and Indigenous ākonga.
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Māori Masters Thesis