Overview
Students will develop an in-depth understanding of the education system in Aotearoa, learning theories, and socially just, inclusive pedagogies.
About this paper
| Paper title | Understanding Education in Aotearoa New Zealand |
|---|---|
| Subject | Education |
| EFTS | 0.1250 |
| Points | 15 points |
| Teaching period(s) | 1st Non standard period (26 January 2026 - 20 November 2026)
(Distance learning)
1st Non standard period (26 January 2026 - 20 November 2026) (Distance learning) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $919.25 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
Overview
Students will develop an in-depth understanding of the education system in Aotearoa, learning theories, and socially just, inclusive pedagogies.
EDGD 320 explores how Te Tiriti o Waitangi, culture and key theories of learning shape education in Aotearoa New Zealand. Students engage with diverse learner experiences and human rights frameworks while developing a reflective, socially just teaching philosophy. This paper lays the foundation for thoughtful, inclusive and transformative practice.
About this paper
| Paper title | Understanding Education in Aotearoa New Zealand |
|---|---|
| Subject | Education |
| EFTS | 0.1250 |
| Points | 15 points |
| Teaching period | 1st Non standard period (25 January 2027 - 19 November 2027) (Distance learning) |
| Delivery mode | The Distance Learning offering of this paper is taught and assessed remotely |
| Domestic Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for 2027 have not yet been set |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Contact
Paper Co-ordinator/Kaituitui Akoraka: Karina Nafatali
- Teaching staff
- Paper Structure
The content of this paper is covered across eight modules:
- Understanding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its relevance to teaching and learning in Aotearoa New Zealand
- Understanding myself as a learner, and how this might shape my teaching
- Theories of teaching and learning-the sciences of learning
- Human rights frameworks
- Learning from children, young people and their whānau (1) (e.g. gender, Pasifika communities, former refugees, diverse whānau and bi/multilingual whānau)
- Learning from children, young people and their whānau (2) (e.g. physical disabilities, deaf community, visual impairment and chronic illness)
- Learning from children, young people and their whānau (3) (e.g. Autism, ADHD/ODD/fetal alcohol syndrome, dyslexia/dyscalculia, trauma, depression and anxiety)
- Linking learning to practice-developing a philosophy of teaching
- Teaching Arrangements
This is an online, asynchronous paper. Modules are designed with the flexibility for students to complete the learning tasks at times that best suit them. Students are encouraged to plan their work carefully so they can stay up to date with the paper content.
- Textbooks
Required text/He Tuhika:
Abbiss, J., Samu, T. W., & Thrupp, M. (Eds.). (2024). The professional practice of teaching in Aotearoa New Zealand (7th ed.). Cengage Learning Australia.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking, Cultural understanding.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the relevance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi to teaching and learning in Aotearoa New Zealand.
- Critically evaluate how culture shapes our understanding and experience of curriculum, teaching and learning.
- Engage in rigorous intellectual analysis regarding their own personal and professional development.
- Reflexively address conceptions of difference, diversity, inclusion and social justice as they relate to education, teaching and learning.
- Demonstrate understanding and application of key theoretical ideas about the transformative potential of education.