Digital Engagement of Māori Students in Low Decile Schools

Abstract

This study aimed to explore 1:1 digital learning environments and the impact they have on Māori student engagement in low decile schools. The expansion of digital technology in education has prompted a rethink of valued knowledge and practices in the way we teach Māori students. Māori are the indigenous people of Aotearoa and face many challenges in education. Compared to Pākehā, Māori, overall, have lower achievement levels, are over represented in special programmes that deal with behavioural issues and their rate of suspension from school is much greater than that of Pākehā, Pasifika and Asian students. A mixed method approach was adopted, collecting qualitative and quantitative data in student and teacher surveys. Teachers also completed a short report on each student participant. Analysis showed a clear relationship between digital classrooms and Māori students. Both students and teachers acknowledged that using Chromebooks in a 1:1 learning environment led to improved levels of engagement. However, survey data revealed that teachers cannot implement technology to enhance Māori student engagement through the provision of technological tools alone. Rather, they need: effective leadership and mentors, ongoing professional learning, high expectations and a desire to foster strong relationships with Māori students. Successful digital learning environments embraced a collaborative learning environment and encouraged students to become leaders of their own learning. These findings may provide insight into the current practices of teachers in 1:1 digital learning environments, how this practice is effective in the classroom and possible ‘next steps’ to inform teaching and learning.