Enhancing Rangatahi Wellbeing in Secondary Education Through Implementation of the Meke Meter™.

Area of Science:

• Educational Psychology
• Adolescent Health
• Indigenous Knowledge Systems

Background:

• Adolescent wellbeing is critical but challenging for secondary schools.
• The Meke Meter™ is an indigenous self-reflection tool with potential for wellbeing promotion.
• Its use in secondary schools is currently unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the suitability and efficacy of the Meke Meter™ for adolescent wellbeing in New Zealand secondary schools.
• To explore the application of both paper-based and online versions of the Meke Meter™.
• To capture the self-evaluated wellbeing of rangatahi (adolescents).

Main Methods:

• Qualitative multiple case study design.
• Two case studies: mainstream co-educational school (paper-based) and alternative education program (online).
• Data collection via student and teacher questionnaires; analysis through inductive thematic analysis and appreciative inquiry.

Main Results:

• Both students and teachers found the Meke Meter™ appealing and valuable for self-reflection and goal-setting.
• Ease of use, visual design, and curriculum alignment were highlighted.
• The tool supported pastoral care, student voice, and learning co-construction, despite data tracking challenges.

Conclusions:

• The Meke Meter™ shows promise for promoting adolescent wellbeing in secondary schools.
• Further development should include a mobile app with enhanced features like gamification.
• Stakeholder consultation is vital for cultural safety and effectiveness.