Learning Science: Pūtaiao in indigenous schools: A review of the literature

Abstract

This paper presents a literature review of theory and briefly presents insight from a case study. The literature review attempts to explain what Pūtaiao is, how it is being taught, and the learning of Pūtaiao. It also investigates the Pūtaiao curriculum and the challenges currently being faced. The literature covers students from early childhood, primary, and secondary school, and in this review, it is mainly limited to Māori immersion classrooms and schools. Further work is needed focusing on teacher education and professional development of Pūtaiao teachers. Pūtaiao as a subject is facing several challenges that may be combated through more specific interventions - rather than studies investigating Kura as a whole. Despite the challenges faced, the literature overall has a positive outlook in which Pūtaiao is enjoyed by students who see it relates to their own knowledge and culture. The case study took place in a Māori medium school that caters for year 9-13 students. Two teachers from a Māori medium school (Kura) who had no background in science and their year 9 and 10 classes voluntarily participated in this research. Through support to teachers in the form of upskilling themselves and learning along with the students, teachers gained confidence and began to teach Pūtaiao. Teachers willingly learn new vocabulary to pass it on to their students. In addition, among mainstream schools, many of the studies had positive impacts by raising awareness among teachers of how to teach Māori students, and how to incorporate some of the values that are fundamental to Pūtaiao.