What about using Whakapapa if you are a materials writer and or learning designer?
Not everyone is in the classroom. If your focus is on materials development and you’re looking for ways of using whakapapa in your content then consider these ideas below.
Use storytelling to explain the history and context of subject matter
Incorporate the concept of whakapapa into the learning design by using storytelling to explain the history and context of your subject matter. This will enable learners to understand the connections between the subject matter and the wider cultural context.
Example: In a construction course, include stories about the history of traditional Māori buildings, such as marae and whare, to explain the use of specific building materials and techniques.
Research and incorporate traditional Māori knowledge and skills
During the planning of the course, research and incorporate traditional Māori knowledge and skills relevant to the trade or vocational education, or at least the particular aspect you need to teach. This will ensure that learners gain a deeper understanding of the trade or vocation within the Māori cultural context.
Example: In a horticulture course, include traditional Māori practices for planting and harvesting kai (food) to demonstrate the importance of sustainability and the relationship between people and the land.
Utilize a variety of case studies, stories, and examples
Utilize the Maori concept of whakapapa when developing learning materials by including a variety of case studies, stories, and examples that relate to the subject matter. This will enable learners to see the relevance of the subject matter to their own lives and experiences.
Example: In a nursing course, include case studies of Māori patients to demonstrate the importance of understanding cultural perspectives on health and wellbeing.
Provide a cultural context for the trade or vocational education
Utilize the concept of whakapapa when teaching or facilitating by providing a cultural context for the trade or vocational education which includes a discussion of the history, traditional values, and customs. This will enable learners to understand the significance of the trade or vocation within the Māori cultural context.
Example: In a carpentry course, discuss the importance of tikanga (protocols) when working on a marae, such as respecting the mana (authority) of the wharenui (meeting house) and following the correct procedures for removing shoes.
Encourage learners to explore their own cultural identity
Use the concept of whakapapa to provide learners with the opportunity to explore their own cultural identity and the impact this has on their trade or vocation. This will enable learners to understand how their cultural background influences their perspective on the subject matter.
Example: In a hairdressing course, provide an opportunity for learners to share their own whakapapa and discuss how their cultural background influences their approach to hairdressing, such as the importance of hair in Māori culture.
Using Whakapapa
In this blog post we’ve explored some practical tips for learning designers and materials writers who are interested in using whakapapa in their work.
By utilising storytelling, researching traditional knowledge and skills, including a variety of case studies and examples, providing cultural context, and encouraging learners to explore their own cultural identity, designers can create a more inclusive and culturally responsive learning environment.
These strategies allow learners to understand the connections between subject matter and the wider cultural context, see the relevance of the subject matter to their own lives and experiences, and understand how their cultural background influences their perspective on the subject matter.
If you found this helpful
I have a book on learner-centred teaching that incorporates these and other concepts from a Māori worldview. Check it out here on Gumroad.
