Who Says Maui Wasn’t A Scientist? Strategies to Increase Maori Participation In Science

• In Event: Kāī Kea: Issues in Indigenous Self-Determination

Abstract

Science and innovation are key to the future development of the Maori economy. However, current current science and innovation is not delivering the outputs needed to transform the Maori economy. Maori are substantially under-represented in the sciences at Tertiary level in New Zealand and under-achieving in the Secondary sector. The reasons for this are many and varied, but two that will be discussed here are: the widespread belief that matauranga is bereft of science and the ‘authority’ vs ‘inquiry’ approach to teaching science. This paper will show that significant components of matauranga fit the criteria of science – therefore instantly making science relevant, and Maui embodies the inquisitive component that is missing from science teaching today.

Author

• Daniel Carl Henare Hikuroa, Nga Pae o te Maramatanga