In Te Ao Māori, knowledge (mātauranga) is passed down through oral traditions, carvings, and other taonga. This lesson validates traditional knowledge systems alongside academic research methods, acknowledging that both have value in contemporary research.
Ngā Whāinga Ako | Learning Objectives
Understand different types of research sources (traditional and digital)
Evaluate the reliability and validity of various sources
Apply ethical research practices when using both traditional Māori knowledge and digital sources
Synthesize information from multiple sources to form conclusions
Present research findings in culturally appropriate ways
Teacher Implementation Guide
Timing: 3-4 lessons (adapt as needed)
Resources Needed: Internet access, library resources, access to local iwi representatives (if possible), printed copies of research templates
Ngā Mahi | Activities
1. Whakatau: Introduction to Research Sources (30 mins)
Begin with a karakia (optional) to open the learning space respectfully.
Show students two versions of the same story - one from a digital encyclopedia and one from a local kaumātua (elder). Discuss:
What similarities and differences do you notice?
What might account for these differences?
How might we determine which version is "correct"?
Interactive: Source Reliability Check
Examine these sources about the origins of the Matariki celebration. Drag each to the appropriate column:
Sources
Wikipedia article edited yesterday
Interview with local kaumātua
Peer-reviewed journal article
Social media post
Reliability
Most Reliable
Questionable
Least Reliable
2. Research Challenge (60 mins)
Students choose a topic related to New Zealand history/environment (e.g., Matariki, kauri dieback, whaling history). They must:
Find 2 digital sources (one must be academic)
Find 1 traditional source (interview, pūrākau/story, museum visit)
Compare the perspectives
Create a Venn diagram showing overlaps/conflicts
Cultural Safety Considerations
Always acknowledge sources of mātauranga Māori appropriately
Some knowledge may be tapu - check with knowledge holders before sharing widely
Recognize that traditional knowledge may have different validation processes than academic knowledge
When interviewing kaumātua, follow proper protocols (arrange through proper channels, bring koha)
Aromatawai | Assessment
Criteria
Achieved
Merit
Excellence
Source Selection
Uses at least one digital and one traditional source
Selects high-quality, relevant sources from both categories
Demonstrates sophisticated selection of diverse, authoritative sources
Analysis
Identifies basic similarities/differences between sources
Analyzes why differences might exist between source types
Synthesizes information to form new understandings that honor both knowledge systems
Cultural Respect
Acknowledges sources appropriately
Demonstrates understanding of cultural protocols
Shows nuanced appreciation for different knowledge systems
Ngā Mahi Whakawhānui | Extension Activities
Organize a debate: "Traditional knowledge is more valuable than academic research"
Create a digital story combining academic research with oral histories
Interview a local researcher about how they incorporate both knowledge systems
Research and present on the WAI 262 claim regarding traditional knowledge
Ngā Tauira Rerekē | Adaptations
For students needing support:
Provide pre-selected sources to evaluate
Use graphic organizers with more scaffolding
Pair students for research activities
For advanced students:
Research a topic where traditional and academic knowledge conflict
Create guidelines for ethical use of traditional knowledge in research
Compare indigenous knowledge systems from multiple cultures
For no-tech situations:
Use printed library resources
Focus on comparing books vs oral sources
Create physical "source cards" to sort
Closing
End with reflection: How might these research skills help you in future learning? Consider closing with a whakataukī (proverb): "Mā te whiri, mā te hono, ka tū te puna māramatanga - By weaving and connecting, the spring of knowledge will emerge."
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## Key Features of This Resource:
1. **Cultural Integration**:
- Authentic te reo Māori terms used appropriately
- Respectful treatment of mātauranga Māori alongside academic knowledge
- Cultural safety considerations embedded throughout
2. **Curriculum Alignment**:
- Supports NZC Key Competencies (Thinking, Using Language/Symbols/Texts)
- Aligns with Social Sciences and English learning areas
- Develops digital literacy skills
3. **Interactive Elements**:
- Drag-and-drop source evaluation activity
- Discussion prompts for collaborative learning
- Practical research challenge
4. **Assessment Ready**:
- Clear achievement criteria at three levels
- Multiple assessment opportunities
- Rubric for consistent evaluation
5. **Differentiation**:
- Adaptations for various learning needs
- Extension activities for advanced students
- Options for low-tech implementation
6. **Teacher Support**:
- Clear implementation guide
- Timing suggestions
- Resource requirements
- Cultural protocols explained
This resource is ready for immediate classroom use while maintaining cultural integrity and meeting diverse learning needs. The HTML is lightweight for Chromebook performance while remaining visually engaging.