Graduate Student Research Symposium 2025

This project examines how well Edukits Hawaii supports teachers in implementing the Nā Hopena Aʻo framework. These pre-made teaching packages give teachers everything they need to connect students with Hawaiian culture and natural surroundings while meeting state Next Generation educational standards. The research evaluates whether these kits effectively save teachers time and money on lesson planning and materials, while successfully implementing Nā Hopena Aʻo alongside modern science standards. By surveying both local and non-local teachers who use these kits, the study will determine if Edukits truly serve as a practical solution for culturally responsive education. This research is significant because it addresses the growing need for accessible teaching materials that honor Hawaiian traditions while meeting contemporary educational requirements. The results will reveal if Edukits effectively bridges the gap between the Department of Education’s Nā Hopena Aʻo framework mandates and their limited allocation of funding and resources for classroom implementation.