Study: Maori Achieving Better than non-Maori in Tertiary Level Mathematics, but Behind in Secondary School
University of Waikato's Post Graduate Student / Researcher Mr. Andrew Prieditis announced today results of his findings
on the academic performance of Maori and non-Maori in the area of Mathematics in New Zealand.
Based on his research, and analyzing results from Maori and non-Maori across New Zealand, his study revealed that
although Maori lagged performance wise behind non-Maori in the area of Mathematics in secondary school, the results of
Maori students at the tertiary level in Mathematics were statistically higher, on average, than non-Maori.
His research involved surveying 500 Maori and 500 non-Maori students across New Zealands who take Mathematics in either
secondary school or University level. These students were asked questions about their motivation levels in Mathematics,
their performance and also their views on the New Zealand curriculum.
Mr. Prieditis was surprised by his findings:
"I think it's quite interesting that even though Maori, as a group, lag behind non-Maori in most academic areas in
secondary school, they catch up in University and in some instances outperform non-Maori. My research indicates this is
especially true in the field of Mathematics: a majority of Maori students surveyed (65%) reported better levels of
motivation than non-Maori, and also tended to seek help more than non-Maori when they didn't understand the material -
thus, the reason for higher levels of performance (Maori surveyed averaged 2% higher than non-Maori at the tertiary
level in tests and examinations) can be attributed to motivation and seeking out help more often. Also, my findings
flies in the face of common stereotypes of Maori academic performance".
Mr Prieditis is pleased with the findings of his research, and he believe it will serve as a motivating factor for Maori
students in the coming years.
ENDS