My approach to teaching.

As an educator and scholar at Massey University, my teaching philosophy is grounded in fostering critical thinking and promoting real-world application of knowledge, particularly in the areas of health and social justice. I currently coordinate core postgraduate courses in Health Psychology and supervise students across various levels. My approach to teaching reflects Massey’s Paerangi Strategy, integrating mātauranga Māori and te reo Māori into the curriculum. I am committed to creating inclusive, engaging, and participatory learning environments that prepare students to apply their learning to complex social challenges.

My supervision

Supervising postgraduate research is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. My supervision approach is rooted in the belief that postgraduate students are apprentice researchers, and I aim to equip them with not only academic knowledge but also practical research skills, such as project management, budgeting, and information searching. I frame each research project as a series of manageable phases, drawing on my own experience in research project management. My supervision style is methodical, affirmative, and hands-on, balancing the provision of practical guidance with pastoral care. I recognize that students are whole individuals, and research, especially in its early stages, can be emotionally challenging.