Reflecting on Reflective Practice

•  How can the principles of Kaupapa Maori relate to my own reflective practice? 
• One thing I have been reflecting on a lot this year is how I can use collaborative groups to enhance the engagement and, consequently, achievement of my students during independent learning time. This will probably form the basis of my literature review and my inquiry project. As a teacher in New Zealand I see myself as having a responsibility to provide a culturally responsive classroom for my students. Collaborative learning practices align with many of the principles of Kaupapa Maori as highlighted below:
• • Tino Rangatiratanga - The Principle of Self-determination
  • Taonga Tuku Iho - The Principle of Cultural Aspiration
  • Ako Māori - The Principle of Culturally Preferred Pedagogy
  • Kia piki ake i ngā raruraru o te kainga - The Principle of Socio-Economic Mediation
  • Whānau - The Principle of Extended Family Structure
  • Kaupapa - The Principle of Collective Philosophy
  • Te Tiriti o Waitangi - The Principle of the Treaty of Waitangi
  • Ata - The Principle of Growing Respectful Relationships
  As part of my literature review, I hope to explore what collaboration looks like/means in Maori theories of learning and development and draw links between this and ideas from other settings. By doing so I aim to develop a classroom environment that is culturally responsive and optimizes engagement, achievement and a sense of belonging for all students.
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