A tuākana-tēina model of trade training
Status
Completed: 31 March 2024
Project Details
An action research project that investigates how a tuākana-tēina model of trade training can provide better learning outcomes and greater success in the construction industry for Māori compared to current Western apprenticeship models.
Collaborating closely with Tāwharau Housing Trust, the research delves into the nuanced dynamics of tuākana-tēina within a trade setting. Tāwharau Housing Trust is a small whānau-based construction company operating out of Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty of the North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand, focusing on applying Māori approaches and values to develop the next generation of Māori builders and tradespeople for the construction industry. The primary objective is to identify successful practices and shed light on the effective implementation of tuakana-teina within this specific organisational context.
Aims
The research addresses two key questions:
- Will a tuākana-tēina model of trade training provide better learning outcomes and greater success in the construction industry for Māori compared to existing Western apprenticeship models?
- What are the different tuākana-tēina scenarios applicable to this training model?
Methodology
This project is informed by kaupapa Māori research methodology. A survey of the available literature as it pertains to Māori trade training and apprenticeships also forms part of this research. The research furthermore examines a case study of Tāwharau Housing Trust and their approach toward Māori trade training and apprenticeships in construction, to explore and identify what works for Māori learners. This study used data collected from focus group interviews with Tāwharau Housing Trust personnel and employees. Due to the high-pressure timeframes and workload within the construction industry, conducting focus groups interviews was the most efficient method of data collection across the highest number of participants in the time that was available.
Team
Joshua Kalan
Project Leader
Te Whare Wananga o Awanuiārangi
Cary Monreal
Research and Innovation
Te Whare Wananga o AwanuiārangiStatus
Funding
$64,400.00 (excl GST)
Insights
The research focuses on uncovering practical applications of tuākana-tēina principles in diverse construction settings. Through qualitative interviews and hands-on observation of construction sites, the study seeks to pinpoint specific scenarios where the application of tuākana-tēina enhances learning outcomes for Māori apprentices.
Impacts
Anticipated impacts revolve around positive responses and advancements in learning and development observed in Māori apprentices when tuākana-tēina principles are applied. The ultimate goal is to offer evidence-based information that guides strategies to improve success rates for Māori apprentices in the construction industry, addressing existing challenges within Western apprenticeship models.
There are four Value pathways; designed to increase cultural awareness of Māori knowledge, values and indigenous teaching methodologies.