Learning and teaching methods in New Zealand are based on extensive, well-documented research that show students learn best when teachers:
• create a supportive learning environment – students feel accepted, have good relationships with both students and teachers and actively participate
• encourage reflective thought and action – students are encouraged to be objective, adapt what they know for their own purposes, think critically and develop creativity
• enhance the relevance of new learning – teachers encourage students to search for relevant information and ideas, and apply this in new contexts or in new ways
• facilitate shared learning – students learn as they join in activities and conversation with other people
• make connections to prior learning and experience – students are encouraged to integrate new learning with what they already understand and have experienced
• provide sufficient opportunities to learn – students are given the time they need to learn, in a variety of contexts
• inquire into the impact their teaching has on students – teachers assess what the students have learned, what they need to learn next and what the best strategies will work for each student.
For more detailed information on learning style, see www.nzcurriculum.tki.org.nz, click on NZ Curriculum and scroll down for Effective pedagogy
A New Zealand education encourages original thinking – using information in new ways to find clever ideas and solutions. By creating an education system with levels and qualifications that follow clear pathways, students are presented with opportunities for life-long learning.
International students generally share classes with New Zealanders and are encouraged to participate in discussion in all areas of learning.
Information and communication technology (ICT) has a major impact on the world in which young people live. E-learning (learning supported by or facilitated by ICT) has the potential to assist both teaching and learning.
A New Zealand education at any level will include use of computers and the internet. The ability to find the right information is seen as important as knowing the information itself.
All universities are research-based – teaching staff are expected to do original research and develop new knowledge in their field. Research-based teaching enhances the quality and depth of a New Zealand university based education. New Zealand is internationally recognised for the quality and level of research activity – a large number of books and publications are produced each year, and a large number of awards and distinctions have been achieved by New Zealand research leaders.
The New Zealand government is committed to research-based tertiary education. In 2004 it introduced the Performance-Based Research Fund (PBRF) to assist research in the tertiary sector.