Contributing author: Hana Hohapata, Kaiarahi Ako, Academic Centre
I manaaki HoS and academic kaimahi to integrate mātauranga Māori into programmes, teaching, and learning. I also develop and oversee our mātauranga resource kete, Ako Whakatere in Canvas and partner with schools to integrate Te Mana Akoranga Tiriti principles into new programmes. Kia tuhonohono tatou: Let’s connect!
Inspired by the work of Associate Professor Byron Rangiwai.
The pīwakawaka (fantail), known for its quick movements, curiosity, and adaptability, serves as an apt metaphor for the characteristics often exhibited by students with ADHD. Read more about ADHD.
Akonga with ADHD often bring creativity, insight, and fresh thinking. The key for kaiako is designing learning that works with this energy.
Teaching the Pīwakawaka Way: Simple Shifts for More Inclusive Teaching
Celebrating Strengths
Give ākonga a classroom role that aligns with their natural strengths for example: leadership, creativity etc.
Encourage Curiosity
Use curiosity to hook their attention. Begin a lesson with a surprising fact, short mystery, unusual object, or provocative question relating to the topic.
Adapt Teaching Methods
Break learning activities into small achievable chunks, and give quick, positive feedback after each step.
Create Safe Spaces
Set a calm routine and let ākonga with ADHD start tasks in the way that works best for them.
Promote Active Learning
Use hands-on, movement-based activities to keep ākonga with ADHD activley engaged.
Build Resilience
Help ākonga with ADHD set small, achievable goals and celebrate each step.
Read the full article by Associate Professor Byron Rangiwai (Ngāti Manawa, Ngāti Whare, Ngāti Porou, Ngāi Tūhoe) Ngā Wai a Te Tūī—Māori and Indigenous Research Centre, Unitec. Or go to Ako Whakatere in Canvas.
Ako Whakatere is a staff-only kete of practical mātauranga Māori tools designed to accelerate learning and strengthen cultural capability across teaching, online, and workplace contexts. Grounded in ako (reciprocal teaching and learning), and whakatere (to navigate or accelerate), these modules support kaiako embed kaupapa Māori naturally into everyday practice while bringing Te Tiriti principles and values such as manaakitanga to life. With over 25 kete including stories, videos, best practice examples, and programme development tools, Ako Whakatere offers practical, ready-to-use resources to deepen your impact and enhance ākonga success. Explore with an open mind and add to your kete.