Massey University education associate professor Jill Bevan-Brown has suggested that schools are neglecting to see the unique genius gifted Māori children have.
“Not all teachers are aware of Māori concepts of giftedness – and because they are not aware of those concepts they won’t see them.”
A Māori child may also feel uncomfortable or undervalued in the class so they purposely hide their abilities, she said.
Ministry of Education figures show Māaori students lag behind the rest of the population when it comes to school success.
Dr Bevan-Brown said it is time for schools to take a Māori perspective.
Often a quiet, well-liked Māori pupil will bring out the best in other children in the class or playground, she said.
Although a confident leader, the child doesn’t seek recognition and may be overlooked if they fail to shine in maths and English.
“Generally we focus on the academic areas. There is a hierarchy of subjects and other areas of giftedness suffer,” Bevan-Brown said.
“Social giftedness is just as important. Being outstanding in manaakitanga [hospitality] for example, is just as important as being gifted in maths.”
Around 15% of the population are estimated to be gifted but 15% of the Māori population are not in special programmes, she said.
It is important for Māori children to have their abilities recognised because they are from a minority group and children are aware they are already at a disadvantage, she added.
Bevan-Brown called on teachers to recognise students for different reasons, such as those with a sense of social justice or concerns for the environment.
“It’s so important we do because we want gifted leaders who have great sense of social responsibility.”
Despite her concerns, she said there is a lot to celebrate.
“Many gains have been made in recent years, and I feel real aroha for those teachers that are doing a wonderful job.
“There is lots of really good work being done by Pakeha teachers in this area but we need more Māori teachers – not instead of, but as well as.”
Bevan-Brown was presented with a Te Manu Kotuku award last month for her research into gifted children.
Souce: Stuff
thank you so much for reinforcing what we have always known and here’s hoping others are taking note