Pāpāmoa College science and chemistry teacher Lian Soh weaves Maatauranga Māori with modern educational concepts, in an inclusive, culturally-responsive approach to science.
By infusing Maatauranga Māori into their teaching, Lian fosters a unique educational approach that empowers students to think critically while respecting and preserving Māori culture, knowledge and connection with the environment.
Lian Soh
Maatauranga in the mix
Science Spinners Science Teacher / Educator / Communicator Award – Finalist
University of Waikato Vision Maatauranga Award – Finalist
Pāpāmoa College science and chemistry teacher Lian Soh weaves Maatauranga Māori with modern educational concepts, in an inclusive, culturally-responsive approach to science.
By infusing Maatauranga Māori into their teaching, Lian fosters a unique educational approach that empowers students to think critically while respecting and preserving Māori culture, knowledge and connection with the environment. They have applied this to course and resource design, including Level 1 science courses “Hauora Tangata” and “Hauora Whenua” which have been shared as design examplars, a conservation-inspired “Ecology and Interdependence” programme, and resources for the Secondary Chemistry Educators NZ team.
Lian actively consults with Māori educators and other experts to align their educational practices with Māori values and aspirations, fostering partnerships with individuals and organisations that share their commitment to culturally-inclusive education.
Lian Soh is a 2023 finalist in the Science Spinners Science Teacher/Educator/Communicator Award and the University of Waikato Vision Maatauranga Award