What is Ako? What is ako and why is it important in an adult teaching context in Aotearoa NZ? Ako is a Māori word meaning ‘learning’ or ‘teaching’. It is an important concept in adult teaching contexts in Aotearoa New Zealand because it emphasises the reciprocal nature of teaching and learning. Ako is rooted in the traditional Māori values of respect, responsibility, and reciprocity, and encourages teachers and learners to share knowledge, experience and skills with each other. Ako is important because it acknowledges the value of diverse perspectives, and encourages collaboration and mutual respect in the learning environment.

1. TAPATORU
The Tapatoru Ako Professional Practice Award
5.1 Unpacking Māori Cultural Capability
AKO

2. OVERVIEW
What is Ako?
What is Tuakana-Teina?
How do you ensure that your teaching is more like
ako and less like a lecture?

3. What does the experience
of a lecture feel like…
as opposed to the
experience of ako?

4. What is ako?
What is tuakana-teina?

5. Teacher
TEACHES
Learner
LEARNS
“Traditional” Lecture Model
The Sage on
the Stage transmits
knowledge to students
Transactional
Students passively
absorb material
One-way
street

6. Kaiako
Teina
AKO
Tuakana
Ākonga
LIVES ARE ENRICHED
wairua – tinana – hinengaro - whanau
Each side has something to give

7. What does it feel like to teach
in a way that is more like ako
and less like a lecture?

8. How can I ensure that my teaching
practice is rooted in?
What steps can I take to create
relationships with my learners that are
based on reciprocal learning and
teaching?

9. annette.tofaeono@ako.ac.nz
graeme.smith@ako.ac.nz
Tēnā koutou
He pātai?
Contact us or see our website to find out more
Kia ora! Thank you!

10. Kaiako
Teina
AKO
Tuakana
Ākonga
LIVES ARE ENRICHED
wairua – tinana – hinengaro - whanau
Each side has something to give