Toward culturally sustaining supervision practices in mathematics education: what do Pasifika research students value most about their supervisors?

Abstract

Disrupting forms of exclusion in higher education requires culturally sustaining practices. However, in some areas of higher education, the notion of culturally sustaining practice remains unexplored. The present study addresses this disparity by exploring the concept of culturally sustaining supervision in the specific case of Pasifika research students in mathematics education. In particular, this case study examines what a group of 22 Pasifika research students in mathematics education valued most about their respective supervisors. Using talanoa (respectful and free-flowing conversation and discussion) to gather data, three characteristics of supervisors that the participants valued most were identified via thematic analysis: (a) being available and accessible; (b) developing the student’s confidence; and (c) providing support beyond the thesis. The characteristics are discussed with respect to the Pacific concept of vā (relationships), which refers to the intricate relational and spatial realm in which connections among people exist and evolve.