Faitatala as a Teaching Tool in Science: Contextualizing the Teaching of Science in Samoa

Abstract

International literature states that the emphasis of science education should be on inquiry learning, where students are encouraged to construct meaningful understanding of scientific concepts through the use of contextualised instructional strategies. In this paper, the author reports on the findings about the use of faitatala as a contextualised instructional tool in the teaching and learning of science in Samoa. Faitatala in this paper specifically highlights two fundamental processes that are relevant to science education in Samoa. The first explores the processes of faitatala (including active listening and speaking) while the second emphasizes the presentation of information.

This paper evolved from recent studies in Year 12 chemistry classrooms which formulated the foundation for this study. Learning is an active participation in class activities, active listening and reflective practices supported by constructive and contextualised instructional strategies (Suaalii & Bhattacharya, 2007; Suaalii, 2013) and positive learning environments (Suaalii, 2021). Therefore, this study explored the implementation of a science course (HTE580) at the Faculty of Education, National University of Samoa. Through interviews and talanoa sessions, the research participants shared their perspectives about the use of the faitatala method in the teaching and learning of science. The findings identified constructive and reflective perceptions about the faitatala method as a teaching tool for science.