Kōrero Mai

Kaiako Experiences of Synchronous Online Teaching and Learning in New Zealand

Authors

  • Te Hurinui Karaka-Clarke University of Canterbury
  • Jo Fletcher University of Canterbury
  • Angus Macfarlane University of Canterbury
  • Bryanna Bell University of Canterbury

Keywords:

online learning, secondary schools, bicultural practices, teachers, students, Te Reo Māori , language learning

Abstract

Online teaching and learning programmes allow ākonga who live in isolated areas, or who have differing learning requirements, to study by distance. Maintaining student engagement in the online environment is an important aspect. This article explores how kaiako (teachers) can engage their ākonga (students) better in online environments. The article has a particular emphasis on supporting Māori learners, who represent 25% of the New Zealand school population. Five kaiako were interviewed about their experience of teaching New Zealand secondary school students online. The study found that the kaiako had some awareness of bicultural values and practices, but lacked confidence in embedding it in their online teaching, which was limited to synchronous timetabled sessions with some communication by text and email. The time provided for online students was considerably less than for the secondary students in traditional classrooms.

Author Biographies

Te Hurinui Karaka-Clarke, University of Canterbury

Te Hurinui Karaka-Clarke is of Te Arawa and Ngāi Tahu descent. He affiliates to Tūhourangi/Ngāti Wāhiao, Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Waitaha, a Kāi Te Ruahikihiki. Te Hurinui is currently the Deputy Head of School and a senior lecturer in the School of Teacher Education in the Faculty of Education at the University of Canterbury.

Jo Fletcher, University of Canterbury

Jo Fletcher is the Doctoral Co-ordinator in the School of Teacher Education in the Faculty of Education at the University of Canterbury.

Angus Macfarlane, University of Canterbury

Angus Hikairo Macfarlane is of Te Arawa and Scottish descent. He affiliates to Ngāti Whakaue and Ngāti Rangwewehi. Angus was until 2020 the Professor of Māori Research at the University of Canterbury. He is now Emeritus Professor in the Child Wellbeing Institute at the University of Canterbury.

Bryanna Bell, University of Canterbury

Bryanna Bell is of Ngāti Porou descent. She is a secondary school teacher of te reo Māori and science. Bree is also a promising young researcher who has aspirations to complete her PhD.

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Published

2022-03-03

Issue

Vol. 25 No. 2 (2021): Journal of Open, Flexible and Distance Learning

Section

Articles - Primary studies

License

Copyright (c) 2021 Te Hurinui Karaka-Clarke, Jo Fletcher, Angus Macfarlane, Bryanna Bell

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