Haʻi Moʻolelo A Me Hana Keaka: Re-Imagining Arts Educational Standards as Culturally Driven Storytelling and Drama for Hawaiʻi's Children

Abstract

Through a Kanaka Maoli perspective, this study gives indication of how culturally based drama-driven storytelling can enhance student understanding of cultural values and practices associated with a Hawaiian kuana‘ike (perspective). With storytelling being the traditional form of Hawaiian learning and curriculum serving as a powerful educational tool to preserve and perpetuate a culture, this study analyzes three sets of educational “Arts” standards using a Kanaka Maoli cultural lens model (‘Ikena). Discourse analysis tools of James Gee (2010) are adapted to critique current standards and develop new “Arts” standards (Ho‘omau) for Hawai‘i. There is an increased need for policy makers and curriculum developers to consider incorporating drama and culture in order to advance children’s opportunities to gain a deeper awareness, understanding, knowledge, and connection to their cultural identity and heritage.