Crossing the Road From Home to Secondary School: A Conversation With Samoan Parents

Abstract

This article reports on key findings that resulted from qualitative research with a small group of Samoan parents. The project was completed in 2004 as part of a Master of Counselling degree at the University of Waikato. It presents the rationale that first ignited the collaboration between parents and author and the search for a methodology that was respectful, consultative and culturally appropriate. In place of the more usual presentation of data, data collected is 're-presented' by privileging the voices of participants, their views and experiences over meanings arrived at via the author's interpretation and/or collation. The concerns raised challenge taken-for-granted assumptions that leave Samoan children disadvantaged within the New Zealand school system and highlight the need for consultative relationships between schools and the communities they serve.