Developing a Bicultural Pedagogy to Teach Te Reo Kori: An Inquiry into My Own Teaching

Abstract

This research project represents actions taken to inform and improve personal educational practices in teaching Te Reo Kori , ,the Maori dimension in physical education,, (Department of Education, 1987, p46). The project was undertaken within a twenty hour Te Reo Kori ,practical, with nineteen second year Physical Education students. A variety of strategies were utilised in an attempt to develop a better understanding of the concept and discourse of Te Reo Kori, and to be able to create a dialogue about teaching Te Reo Kori in a manner that is appropriately culturally responsive. Data was collected from student journals, photographs, questionnaire, observation, the author,s personal journal writing and analytical memos. The outcomes indicate a better awareness and understanding of Maori cultural beliefs and values, personal growth and development, in terms of more informed bicultural practices and a greater sense of purpose and value attached to the inclusion of Te Reo Kori in the Physical Education curriculum. By making Tikanga Maori a visible part of the physical education curriculum this research illustrates how it can play an important part in helping students to appreciate and value, the ethnic and cultural diversity of New Zealand and to raise Te Reo Kori from its marginalised position in the physical education curriculum. However, problems exist, practising a bicultural pedagogy is not a simple task to achieve there is a struggle to achieve small steps in the process.