Standard 3 - Graduating Teachers understand how contextual factors influence teaching and learning

3a. have an understanding of the complex influences that personal, social and cultural factors may have on teachers and learners.

3b. have knowledge of tikanga and te reo Maaori to work effectively within the bicultural contexts of Aotearoa New Zealand.

3c. have an understanding of education within the bicultural, multicultural, social, political, economic and historical contexts of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Understanding the contextual factors which influence both teaching and learning is crucial in a diverse multicultural society such as Aotearoa. Who we are as individuals and within our whaanau is hugely influenced by our personal, cultural, and societal beliefs and values. Te Whāriki (1996) emphasises the importance of relationships for both teachers and learners with people, places, and things. It is within these relationships that kaiako develop trust and a sense of knowledge and understanding of who we are as teachers and who our learners are as individuals. Te Whāriki also highlights the importance of honouring both parties of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment to te reo Māori me ona tikanga within early childhood education (Ministry of Education, 1996). The commitment to Māori as tangata whenua (indigenous) of New Zealand also extends to all cultures in early childhood settings, and is reiterated in Te Whāriki in the strand of contribution “Opportunities for learning are equitable, and each child’s contribution is valued” (p16).

We cannot be successful teachers and create successful tamariki if we do not recognise and understand the contextual factors of teaching and learning within our communities, and the value and importance of positive relationships with our communities (Education Council of Aotearoa New Zealand, 2015).

The following evidence supports that I have knowledge and understanding of the contextual factors which may influence teaching and learning.

Evidence 1 - links to 3a & 3c

The following evidence is a link to a blog I created to examine and understand the value and contextual factors which influence our teaching and learning in relation to people, places, and things.  The Blog demonstrates I met the learning outcome of understanding the significance of people, places, and things within an early childhood setting. This evidence is also supported by lecturer feedback and marks.

Blog - People, Places, Things, and Events.

Lecturer Feedback - supporting my blog.

Evidence 2 - Links to 3a & 3c.

The following evidence is an extract from a social justice assessment that examines and reflect on the social issues (contextual factors) to enhance  my pedagogy to support equity and diversity. This evidence is supported my assessment marks and feedback.

Social Justice Assessment

Evidence 3 - 3a

The following evidence is Associate Teacher Feedback from my practicums which highlight I have demonstrated and have knowledge and understanding of contextual factors which influence learning in my practice.