Tuakana-Teina” is a Maori concept referring to the relationship between an older sibling (Tuakana) and a younger sibling (Teina).
Mā te Tuakana kā tōtika te Tēina. Ma te Tēina kā tōtika te Tuakana
From the older sibling the younger one learns the right way to do things, and from the younger sibling the older one learns to be tolerant
Tuakana/Teina is specific to teaching and learning in the Māori context. Within teaching and learning contexts, this can take a variety of forms:
- Older to younger – the Tuakana has the knowledge and content to pass on to the Teina.
- Younger to older – the Teina has some skills in an area that the Tuakana does not and is able to teach the Tuakana.
- Peer to peer – Teina teaches Teina, Tuakana teaches Tuakana.
- Able to less able – the learner may not be as able in an area, and someone more skilled can teach what is required.
(Sourced: Turuki Maori Health Workforce Strategy “Growing our own”)