Pedagogical approaches and classroom practices
Like science knowledge, effective science teaching evolves and changes as new information comes to light. We’ve new opportunities and resources to help make this happen!
Free PLD – Puna Aronui and AI
AI and science teaching is our next Puna Aronui course. Join a community of educators to explore the opportunities and implications of AI in science education. Critically engage with AI and navigate change to help prepare students for an increasingly AI-influenced world.
This free 4-week Puna Aronui course will run from 28 July–21 August.
Register here by 21 July.
AI and science teaching
The ripples reflect the many ways AI can be explored and applied to support science teaching. The kete symbolises sources of knowledge that support our exploration and practice.
Co-existing knowledge systems in learning environments
Teaching from multiple knowledge systems recognises and values the richness of different ways of knowing, enabling ākonga to engage with learning from cultural, scientific, historical and lived perspectives. This model strengthens critical thinking and creativity as learners are encouraged to look deeper and build curiosity.
Benefits of teaching from multiple knowledge systems
Kaiako and ākonga tell of their experiences of teaching and learning while using multiple knowledge systems. They discuss the benefits and provide snippets of advice to get you started.
Select here to view video transcript, kupu Māori, questions for discussion and copyright information.
Our new resources show how kaiako and ākonga have used co-existing knowledge systems in their classrooms. We are very excited to share authentic student voices, and where their curiosities took them.
Teaching from multiple knowledge systems and Learning from bicultural design provide the rationale behind this approach and the benefits it can bring. The case studies follow ākonga-led inquiries – the challenges they faced and the strategies they used to overcome them.
Case study: Ngā tohu o te maramataka – exploring lunar signs
Case study: Nature to the rescue! Wetland fibres versus oil!
The activity Using dual knowledge systems – the Big Bang and Te Kore has the simple hands-on activities that kaiako Simone Marsters used to explore how the universe came into being.
For educators who feel unsure about using multiple knowledge systems and sources, kaiako remind us that the key message is to trust the process and the learners.
Kia Pākiki Canterbury – Matariki
Just in time for Matariki is a new article and podcast with Indigenous philosopher Dr Emma Maurice (Ngāti Kahungunu ki Heretaunga). Emma shares insights about Puaka, the tohu that signals the beginning of the Māori New Year for those living in Te Waipounamu.
Some things to think about
Keep these on your planning radar this July:
Is your July Plastic Free?
Shark Awareness Day is 14 July, a great opportunity to participate in our latest Citizen science project – Shark Spy.
Broadnose sevengill shark (Notorynchus cepedianus)
This species of shark is recognisable due to having seven gill slits – most shark species only have five. They are one of the most common inshore shark species around Aotearoa. They are opportunistic predators, feeding on anything that fits in their mouths, and have been reported to attack humans.
Planning inspiration for August :
International Cat Day: 8 August. We love our pet cats but they do pose a few legal and ethical issues. Start the conversation with Should cats be allowed to roam freely?
International Dog Day: 26 August. Read about kurī and their significance as a taonga species.
National Poetry Day 2026: 26 August. Dive into scientific poetry with Fred the Thread – for middle and upper primary.
World Lake Day: 27 August. Check out the lakes of Aotearoa New Zealand then explore your local lake in person or online.
Follow us
We offer added value through our social media. Contact us about creating collections or boards tailored to your needs. Join us on our online community Lux – a platform on School Kit to connect and find inspiration about science and science education. We can help foster connections between the education and science communities.
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Your feedback
We hope you enjoy using the Science Learning Hub Pokapū Akoranga Pūtaiao in your teaching and would love to hear from you. Your comments, ideas and feedback can be emailed to enquiries@sciencelearn.org.nz.
Noho ora mai
Science Learning Hub Pokapū Akoranga Pūtaiao
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