He Whakamaramatia Nga Pukapuka Reo Tuarua

Review and Evaluation of Foundations Workbook Resources

Careerforce is currently reviewing and evaluating our Te Reo Māori Foundations Workbooks.

As part of a project with the Ministry of Health Careerforce were given the opportunity to develop nine bilingual learning resource workbooks for the Foundations Skills [level 2] Qualification. The workbooks were produced in Te Reo Māori [25%] and English, and have been piloted by 12 health and disability workplaces throughout the country.  

A review of the workbooks was convened at Ngā Hau E Whā marae on 18/19 March in Ōtautahi to enable participants to share their experiences and those of their trainees in terms of workplace effectiveness, and assessment, and the learnings and relevance as a work book resource. 

The recommendations are a direct result of this review, and to ensure workbook amendments and/or improvements are carried out so that the quality, integrity, and mana of the Māori language continues to be developed as a reflection of the recognition of Te Reo Māori as an official language of New Zealand.  The workbooks true potential is yet to be realised, however, once improvements have been made, the books should be distributed to all health service providers as a marketing and promotion tool.

Some of the findings include;

• The books do have great potential.
• Te Reo and Tikanga Māori needs strengthening in the care context and not restricted by the terms described in the glossary.
• Opens a window to a Māori world view in contemporary society.
• Identified a new classification range of Te Reo Māori.
• Kupu hou [new words] to express clinical and western scientific terminology is enlightening to native speakers.
• Generational differences in learning.
• Very useful, very stimulating and opens up a new learning world in models of care [Te Wheke/Te Whare Tapa Whā].
• Information and knowledge is good, but the spirit of translation is restrictive.
• Dominated by the English language.  The broader expression of Te Reo is marginalised.
• Identify the target group [but leave open for non-Māori users].
• Excellent resource book for broader promotion and marketing within the carer sector.  Should be a national read.

The Next Steps

• Revisit purpose and intention of work books     
• Return Moderation Books returned                        
• Draft feedback into discussion paper  
• Compile feedback into report Management and review team with recommendations
• Report to Te Mana Whakahaere for endorsement.     
• Present report to Careerforce Board for endorsement and approval.