A framework for addressing Māori knowledge in research, science and technology

This paper seeks to identify and discuss some of the issues for Māori research and in doing so presents a framework for considering the range of research activities which attempt to provide or develop Māori knowledge. The paper goes on to discuss kaupapa Māori research in depth as the particular approach of the Research, Science and Technology sector that is most likely to consistently develop Māori knowledge. According to Treaty of Waitangi analysis, the special relationship between tangata whenua and the Crown acknowledges the right of a distinct position based on the Māori view of knowledge as a taonga. Secondly, there is the clear acknowledgment of the undermining of the Māori knowledge base since the signing of the Treaty and that supporting kaupapa Māori research can in part offer redress in terms of re-establishing lost knowledge. The framework provided here may be used to reorient the balance of the research purchase. First, the framework allows the identification of the location of specific projects and enables an 'audit-map' of research purchase/investment over time. Secondly, research purchasers need to operate systems of assessment and performance monitoring which can respond to the range of 'Māori' research. Third, the development of methods and methodologies for Māori-centred and kaupapa Māori approaches is an area of active investment and complements the effort to develop a skilled Māori research workforce.