A Massey University associate professor has received national recognition for her research into ways to improve schooling for Maori children with special needs.
Jill Bevan-Brown, (Ngati Raukawa, Ngati Wehiwehi, Ngati Awa and Ngai Te Rangi), has been given the Tohu Pae Tawhiti Award from the Association of Research in Education.
The title recognises those who've made significant contributions to Matauranga Maori - Maori Education - and includes a taonga and $1500.
Dr Bevan-Brown says a highlight of her more than 30-year-long career has been talking to tamariki and their whanau about the broad spectrum of specials needs - from someone with disabilities through to a gifted child.
She's encouraging kaiako to incorporate a child's culture into education because a tamaiti (child) would take more of an interest in something that relates to them.
Dr Bevan-Brown says she's honoured to have received the award, and thanks everyone who's helped with her research.
