Abstract
As part of 'Manaakitia te Reo' (a project focusing on the use of te reo at the University of Otago), this studentship aims to support Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) staff better accommodate tauira (students) who submit assessments in te reo Māori. Despite the University of Otago's 2003 Te Reo Māori Policy, students continue to face barriers that obstruct the submissions of assessments in te reo. HSFY staff are the primary focus for this project, as they are responsible for teaching the next generation of healthcare professionals.
As one of the University's largest cohorts, HSFY sees hundreds of students each year, yet none have submitted final exams in te reo Māori despite the number of students entering from Māori medium education. This project seeks to address the current system's lack of sustainability and equity. Supporting tauira Māori at this foundational stage is critical in normalising te reo within health education. By empowering and integrating the use of te reo early in their journey these tauira will be able to create a culturally safe environment for whānau Māori navigating the healthcare system.
This project addresses the barriers and equips staff with a deeper understanding of students' needs and practical solutions for support. Adopting a mixed methods approach using thematic analysis and Māori methodologies, ensured a holistic view of the data while keeping tauira success at the forefront. Key themes identified through this process informed the development of a tailored resource for HSFY staff. This resource is grounded in three core Māori principles: Tauutuutu (Reciprocity), Tuakiritanga (Identity), and Tino Rangatiratanga (Self-Determination), providing a values-based framework for staff to support this mahi.