Alternative Narratives of Pacific Success: Culturally Relevant Ways of Knowing as Truth and Democratized Evidence

• In Event: 18.058 - MTCC Roundtable Session Four
  In Roundtable Session: 18.058-10 - Setting the Record Straight in the Post-Truth Era: The Importance of Indigenous Research and Praxis I

Abstract

The study aimed to illuminate processes that families of Pacific heritage (or Pasifika) employ in Aotearoa-New Zealand to support their children’s academic success. Numerous policy initiatives have sought to address disparities in achievement for Pasifika students since the 1990s. This study sought to contribute to the relatively new knowledge base that focuses on parent and student strategies for success. Multiple case study methodology utilising narrative inquiry and informed by indigenous Pacific research principles facilitated an approach that privileged ways of knowing and families’ perspectives of reality. The study focused on how academic socialization develops within Pasifika contexts, using the lens of ecological systems theory. Results established strong intergenerational expectations for student success; based on cultural competency and ‘paying forward’.

Authors

• Emma Cunningham, The University of Auckland

• Tanya L.M. Samu, University of Auckland

• Rebecca Jesson, University of Auckland