Teaching Maori children with special education needs.

Getting rid of the too hard basket.

Abstract

This paper examines research evidence, practitioners' knowledge, skills and experiences and the voice of students, parents and whanau to identify common messages in respect to educating Maori students both with and without special education needs. The keys to effective practice identified include: positive teacher-student relationships; interactive teaching strategies that engage students in their own learning; teaching that builds on students' strengths and interests; high teacher expectations of Maori students; the inclusion of cultural input; and the involvement of parents, whanau and peers. Professionals are urged to take the
provision of culturally appropriate, effective education out of the too hard basket" and to use the previous strategies when working with Maori students.