The strengthened sinnet: Distance learning from a Pasifika perspective

Abstract

This paper presents a successful theoretical framework for distance learning. The metaphor, ‘O le maea malosi’ (the strengthened sinnet) is used to contextualise the strength of the engagement of Pasifika teachers with Pasifika students. The strands of the strengthened sinnet represents the collaborative team work of lecturers and support staff in the delivery of Early Childhood Diploma courses to students both in Auckland and Tokoroa. The Tokoroa cohort consisted of 27 Pasifika women, mainly from the Cook Islands and Samoa between 21 and 60 years of age who were already working in early childhood centres (Cook Islands Punaga Reo and Samoan Aoga Amata) but did not hold a teaching qualification. As noted in the programme documentation by the Auckland College of Education, “An aim of the programme was to provide an opportunity for people to gain a professional teaching qualification to teach Pacific Islands children in early childhood settings, particularly in the immersion centres” (1999, p. 4). The design of this programme was built around the collective knowledge, skills and experiences of the teachers that were efficacious in establishing positive working relationships and shared learning. The ‘strengthened sinnet’ suggests that it is in the strength and quality of these relationships which encouraged effective delivery and enhanced successful learning for both the teachers and students.