Empowering Digital Learning - Sara Petesa A’oga Amata and SAASIA's Si'i le Matālalaga Initiative
2 August 2023 | By Editorial Staff
In a fast-paced, digital era, the Sosaiete Aoga Amata Samoa i Aotearoa Incorporated (SAASIA) has taken a pivotal step to bridge the digital divide in early childhood education, with the successful completion of their Si’i le Matālalaga Phase II project. Sara Petesa A’oga Amata, being a committed member of SAASIA, actively participated in this transformative initiative, demonstrating its dedication to fostering digital literacy and resourcefulness amongst its staff and the broader educational community.
Si’i le Matālalaga, meaning “unveiling changes“, mirrors the initiative’s vision – enabling change by providing essential digital resources and knowledge to early childhood educators and parents. Phase II involved distributing laptops to schools and conducting four workshops, each focused on different aspects of digital literacy. The workshops ranged from technical advice on maintaining hardware, discussions on online safety and security, using free online resources for teaching and reporting, to finally, utilising Google Workspace and publishing content online.
On May 19, 2023, six dedicated staff members from Sara Petesa participated in the final workshop, where they reviewed previously covered topics and further explored Google Workspace’s potential. This immersive program not only introduced many educators to the workings of email and digital learning resources but also spotlighted freely available online resources that can be integrated into teaching.
Founded in 1989, SAASIA has been leading the way in developing Samoan cultural and natural resources, delivering professional development to Aoga Amata and translating documents into the Samoan language. Comprising Samoan early childhood centres across New Zealand, SAASIA aims to empower educators to continue delivering high-quality Samoan ECE services. Its work is underpinned by Christian principles and organisational values, with a key focus on language, culture, Christianity, ECE curriculum, resources, and research.
The Si’i le Matālalaga initiative aligns seamlessly with SAASIA’s objectives. Notably, it supports the ongoing training and professional development of Samoan teachers in early childhood education, and it promotes the development of equipment and teaching resources useful in teaching Samoan language, reflecting SAASIA’s commitment to enhance digital literacy while fostering Samoan cultural identity.
The completion of the Si’i le Matālalaga Phase II by Sara Petesa A’oga Amata and SAASIA marks an important milestone in enhancing digital inclusion and leveraging online resources in Samoan early childhood education. By successfully integrating technology into their pedagogy, they are set to empower educators, parents, and students alike, navigating the digital landscape while preserving and promoting the Samoan culture. As we celebrate this achievement, we also look forward to more innovative initiatives to further strengthen our community’s educational endeavours.
