This report explores the effectiveness of marae-based learning in providing language and literacy for Māori adults. It examines two marae-based programmes at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi. ‘Te piko o te māhuri, tērā te tupu o te rākau’ can be translated as ‘the way in which the young sapling is nurtured (bent), determines how the tree will grow’. For this research it symbolises the importance of strong learning foundations for future success in learning.
Purpose
The project sought to extend and enhance research already completed in 2005, namely “Working in the Light of Evidence”(2005a), a review of the best evidence available internationally of effective programme and design methods for teaching literacy, numeracy and language to adults, and “Pedagogy in Practice” (2005b), a study that explores literacy, numeracy and language teaching by observing how 15 adult educators in a variety of contexts actually teach their students. Specifically, this research used qualitative research methods to explore the utility and potential of marae-based education programmes to provide effective foundation learning opportunities for Māori learners. This is reflected in the phrase ‘Te piko o te māhuri, tērā te tupu o te rākau’, which symbolises the importance of strong learning foundations for future success in learning.