Varani-Norton, Eta (2020) Na Lawa (ni Qoli/The Fishing Net) Conceptual Framework and the Institutional Web. In: It takes an Island and an Ocean. Institute of Education, The University of the South Pacific, Tonga Campus, Tonga, pp. 140-151. ISBN 978-982-9173-54-6
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Abstract
This paper uses an indigenous Fijian methodology, Na Lawa (ni Qoli) or The (Fishing) Net that takes a holistic and relational approach, integral to indigenous epistemologies. The “nodes” or knots in the lawa (net) represent traditional and/or modern concepts. The connected nodes represent a network of relationships. Each node represents concepts that can be researched and examined to clarify the connections and to highlight what is relevant to, or what impedes, ako/vuli/learning, and what adaptation or intervention might be needed to improve ako. Using as a grid the institutional web of the Vanua, church, and state centering on education, and knots in the lawa to identify issues affecting iTaukei children’s ako, the methodology offers a roadmap for researchers, academics, and policymakers as an overview. Identifying IT (Information Technology) as a problem, this paper uses Na Lawa methodology to demonstrate the application of the net and institutional web as a roadmap.
To illustrate conceptual linkages and the social relations that make up the institutional web, the concept of “technology” is used to demonstrate how the web of relations to other conceptual nodes can be strengthened. Using the lawa as a grid to identify each node representing a concept, constructs are inferred, based on the institutional attributes and their contributory roles to strengthening of relationships that build on ako. The nodes are the “talking points” for participants to clarify and identify overlapping issues to research.
The paper advocates a simultaneous effort by all institutions to strengthen relations between nodes to improve ako and reciprocal networking. Indeed, the voice of the community is essential in this approach.
| Item Type: | Book Chapter |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | L Education > L Education (General) |
| Divisions: | Faculty of Arts, Law and Education (FALE) > Institute of Education |
| Depositing User: | Afuafu Kautoke |
| Date Deposited: | 09 Sep 2020 23:22 |
| Last Modified: | 09 Sep 2020 23:22 |
| URI: | https://repository.usp.ac.fj/id/eprint/12287 |
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