New Zealand Pacific peoples make up the third largest ethnic group in New Zealand, representing a significant and growing demographic playing a crucial role in the nation's future. The study highlighted that there is a lack of consistency in high-quality teaching and learning necessary for all Pasifika learners to succeed. This research project aims to identify effective pastoral care strategies to support Pasifika students to complete their studies in a culturally responsive context. The research team used a pragmatic methodology combining Pasifika and Western perspectives, starting with a literature review and beginning talanoa(conversations) through an online survey. The aim is to foster meaningful conversations to understand and improve pastoral care for Pasifika learners. The overall project phases include firstly defining pastoral care, secondly identifying best practices, and thirdly outlining its core components, this study will be reporting on the first phase of the project. Findings from the first phase identified initial key elements in effective pastoral care for Pasifika learners that included: inclusivity, cultural respect, community collaboration and staff training. Additionally, the findings indicate the need for the education sector to recognize and address historical and structural inequities affecting Pasifika students and to provide additional resources and support as necessary. This study could have a significant impact, especially if it leads to culturally responsive changes to police/practice.

Authors:
Anamua Lole, Manukau Institute of Technology, New Zealand
Krishan Mani, Manukau Institute of Technology, New Zealand

About the Presenter(s)
Anamua Lole, Senior Lecturer, Manukau Institute of Technology, New Zealand. Anamua is of Samoan descent. Research interests include Samoan conceptual knowledge for informing pedagogy and practice for the education of Samoan peoples in the diaspora.

Krishan Mani, Senior Lecturer at Manukau Institute of Technology, has 20+ years’ experience in tertiary education. He is passionate about digital learning and supports adult literacy and numeracy through technology-enhanced teaching practices.

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