Ngā Iho Pūmanawa: How Māori students' role models relate to their future aspirations

Abstract

This study focused on the characteristics of Māori students’ role models and how they relate to Māori students’ future aspirations. The overarching questions driving this study were: What are the characteristics of Māori students’ role models? How do the characteristics of Māori students’ role models relate to their future aspirations? The extant literature told us that manaakitanga is a revered characteristic in Māoridom. Also, that by following aspirations that are driven by intrinsic motivations, people are more likely to experience good health and wellbeing. This study explored Māori students’ role models; the defining characteristics of their role models; Māori student motivation for attending secondary school; their post-secondary school aspirations and their intended career paths. The analysis was based on Māori students’ questionnaire responses (n=273). Qualitative and quantitative data was analysed through a Kaupapa Māori lens and the findings show that Māori secondary school students are inspired by people who are ‘tangata manaaki’ caring and helpful; ‘tangata pūkenga’, skilled and knowledgeable individuals and ‘tangata pukumahi’, hardworking and industrious people. The implications of this study reiterate the importance of whānau (family) in the formation of Māori students’ motivations and aspirations. Further findings are that 39.1% of the Māori students in this study aspired to go to university and 44.3% aspired to become professionals. Their motivations for attending school were varied, but they were influenced by earning money in the future, being able to look after their families, and having “a good life”. Educators can better prepare Māori students for the lives that they envisage by understanding who Māori students’ role models are and what Māori students’ aspirations are for the future.