5.  How do I/can I utilise e-learning to demonstrate respect for the cultural heritages of both Treaty partners in in Aotearoa/New Zealand?

In 2013 when Miss BR (Donna) was taking Reo lessons in our classes I created QR codes that had Donna saying correct Reo for classroom objects eg. "homai te penne?"   These were a big hit in class and demonstrated ways in which eLearning could be easily integrated within a Maori context.  Unfortunately with my focus elsewhere (collaboration and MLE pedagogy etc.) I have not used these again.  

I also downloaded a 'Reomations' App for the iPad - hoping this would be an interactive way for students to learn Te Reo.  This app was put out by the MOE and supports the He reo tupu, he reo ora resource. http://hereoora.tki.org.nz/

This resource is fabulous and whilst I really enjoy teaching Reo and would love to implement this into our daily programme ... I need to find time to do so.   Maybe we change our current Friday set up to include more Reo?  

4.  How do I practise and develop my use of te reo Maori?

I don't practice my Te Reo.  I loved doing Te Reo at university and took a paper on how to teach a second language while studying at university.  It is disappointing that I have not put more effort into the ongoing planning, teaching and learning of Te Reo and Tikanga Maori.

I have a cupboard of resources to help me but struggle to find the time to teach in our already crammed full days.  I guess I need to stop and reflect and find the time to teach Te Reo Maori.   

3.  How have I incorporated this knowledge into my planning and execution of lessons?

As mentioned in comments to Question 2 the Junior Syndicate planned and taught a 5 week unit on Matariki in 2014.  Whilst this was somewhat effective in teaching students elements of Maori culture I feel there was a larger element missing from our planning and teaching programme - explicit teaching of language.  

In 2014 I taught simple commands and also began to teach the structure of a mihi.  This started out great ... but was not followed through due to other curriculum area demands at the time. 

In 2015 I have only used very basic and minimal amounts of Maori language in LC1.  This is an area where definite improvement is needed.  

LC1 have started thinking about integrating Maori into our Friday programme.  With three teachers we will be able to plan and teach 3 quality Reo/Tikanga sessions to our students each week.

2.  How do I continue to advance my professional learning in this area as a teacher?

I have attended two courses at Hukanui School (2014 and 2012) that were directly related to implementing a Te Reo language/cultural programme into a school setting.  To make this happen at Te Kowhai I think there needs to be significant PD opportunities provided to support staff in their planning and teaching of Maori language and culture.

In 2014 the Junior Syndicate explored the Maori tradition of Matariki in a 5 week long unit where students rotated each week to learn about a different Maori tradition/cultural aspect. However, in my opinion this unit was somewhat flawed, as there was minimal focus on language development.  Most activities were art based, which is fine, but the real nitty gritty aspects such as language were not evident.  

1.  How do I reflect in my professional work respect for the cultural heritages of both Treaty partners in Aotearoa New Zealand?

Ooh this is a tough one.  I guess I aim to ensure that I show respect in LC1 towards all students regardless of their race, culture or beliefs.  This is probably something as a whole school we could unpack further and delve deeper into?  

I take pride in getting to know all the students I teach and their families.  When sending home correspondence I always address to: parents/whanau.  I avoid sitting on desks as I know that this is not okay within Maori Culture. 

Not really sure what else I should add here.