The Legend of Awarua and Rereroa: Developing Culturally Responsive Pedagogy Through the Arts

• In Event: Roundtable Session 121
  In Roundtable Session: Culturally Responsive Pedagogies

Abstract

The arts can make a powerful contribution to notions of cultural responsiveness. This paper investigates the impact of a collaborative inter-disciplinary arts project aiming to explore and improve culturally responsive practice in the classroom. Core values of the pre-European Māori performing arts formed a focal point of reference throughout the research. A number of variables determining the value of culturally responsive pedagogy through the arts were identified. These related to leadership style, quality, nature and extent of relationships, and adopting an inter-disciplinary approach to the arts. The project highlighted the transformative value of arts education and the importance of establishing collaborative relationships in furthering culturally responsive practice.

Author

• Rawiri Hindle, Victoria University