The place of cultural standards in indigenous education / Huia Tomlins-Jahnke.

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This article explores the development of cultural standards in Aotearoa New Zealand as a basis for enhancing the learning pathways of Mâori children through the infusion of indigenous history, language and culture in the curriculum and milieu of primary schools. Rather than employing an ad hoc attachment or merely incorporating experiences of localized knowledge, an infusion of indigenous perspectives in every segment and module of the curriculum accepts the role Mâori people have played in the history and culture of Aotearoa New Zealand. The cultural standards plan offers a unique opportunity for schools, Mâori tribes and communities to develop a truly inclusive education for all children. It provides a way of consolidating an identity as Mâori and/or New Zealander within the context of Aotearoa New Zealand. Furthermore, the development of a cultural standards plan brings into sharp focus the gaps in education where so many children are educated without knowing the history of the land, language, environment, flora and fauna specific to Aotearoa/ New Zealand. This paper highlights the issues and concerns that are highly topical, but which have received little attention in the literature.