Tikanga

Tikanga refers to Maoris’ traditions and customs handed down through the passage of time from generation to generation. Being a tertiary educator my first priority will be to know more about Maori customs and language. The second language pedagogy is essential to encourage and understand the Maori learners. The best way to learn these skills is to participate in the community activities.

The common Maori customs will be given importance in the class. They do not sit on the table and the bags are not kept on the tables. The learners will be encouraged to support each other. They will express themselves through different classroom and cultural activities. For example including Maori prayer in the beginning and end of the session and the students can perform their traditional dance. They will be encouraged share the methods to cook their recipes and will be given the opportunity to show the other students. The community members can be called for discussion to promote cultural practices. The use of resources like animated videos to learn about Te Reo is important. Maori history, customs and traditions can be presented in the form of plays in the class.