Māori kōhanga reo

Definition

Māori kōhanga reo are immersion language nests aimed at revitalizing the Māori language and culture, primarily for children aged zero to six. These programs are designed to foster fluency in Māori by surrounding young learners with native speakers, thereby creating a nurturing environment where the language can thrive and be passed on to future generations. The kōhanga reo movement plays a crucial role in reversing the decline of the Māori language, which has faced significant challenges over time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The kōhanga reo movement began in the early 1980s as a response to the declining use of Te Reo Māori among younger generations.
2. Parents and whānau (families) are actively involved in kōhanga reo, creating a strong sense of community and cultural identity.
3. Kōhanga reo operate under the principle of total immersion, meaning that all communication within the setting is conducted in Te Reo Māori.
4. These language nests have been instrumental in increasing the number of fluent Māori speakers among children and families.
5. Kōhanga reo programs have expanded into various educational levels, influencing early childhood education policies across New Zealand.

Review Questions

• How do māori kōhanga reo contribute to the preservation of Te Reo Māori among young children?
  • Māori kōhanga reo contribute significantly to the preservation of Te Reo Māori by providing an immersive environment where young children can learn the language from native speakers. By integrating the language into daily activities and interactions, these programs help children develop fluency and confidence in speaking Te Reo. This approach not only enhances language skills but also fosters a deep connection to Māori culture and identity, ensuring that the language is actively passed down to future generations.
• Discuss the role of community involvement in the success of māori kōhanga reo programs.
  • Community involvement is crucial to the success of māori kōhanga reo programs as it creates a supportive environment for both children and their families. Parents and whānau participate in various aspects of the program, from governance to day-to-day activities, reinforcing the importance of cultural identity. This collective effort enhances language acquisition while also fostering intergenerational connections, ensuring that both language and cultural practices are preserved and celebrated within the community.
• Evaluate the impact of māori kōhanga reo on New Zealand's broader efforts toward language revitalization and cultural preservation.
  • The impact of māori kōhanga reo on New Zealand's broader efforts toward language revitalization and cultural preservation has been profound. By successfully increasing fluency in Te Reo Māori among young learners, these programs have set a precedent for effective language teaching methodologies. The success of kōhanga reo has also led to policy changes in early childhood education, encouraging a more inclusive approach that recognizes and values indigenous languages. Furthermore, as these children grow into adults who speak Te Reo, they become advocates for their culture, contributing to a wider societal recognition of Māori identity and heritage.

Related terms

Te Reo Māori: The Māori language, an official language of New Zealand, which is integral to Māori culture and identity.

Language revitalization: Efforts to revive and promote a language that is endangered or has diminished in use among its speakers.

Kaupapa Māori: A research approach that incorporates Māori values, principles, and practices, often applied in education and social development.