This scoping exercise investigated how He Rauheke as a contextual framework can be developed and applied to the field of early intervention to inform assessment, early identification, programmes of intervention, and evaluation processes.
He Rauheke builds on the relationships between people and their environment, the significance of whakapapa and identity, the reciprocal interactions between culture and institution, the capacity to participate effectively in social, health and educational paradigms; and importantly the reclamation and adaptation of traditional concepts to a contemporary context. He Rauheke considers other kaupapa Māori research – such as Piripono Mai, Mana Kaitiakitanga, Te Wheke and Te Whare-Tapa-Whā, as well as the philosophical underpinnings of early childhood education and early intervention.
This scoping exercise informs further research that has a long term aim of building capacity and capability within iwi-hapū communities – through utilising traditional concepts and knowledge as a foundation for service development that has a Māori strengths focus. It is anticipated that this research will form the framework for the development of kaupapa Māori service delivery models and practice of multidisciplinary / transdisciplinary approaches; while also assisting the transformation of the practice of mainstream institutions in the field of special education and child and family development (i.e. across ministries of education, health and social development).