DigiKōr - Digital Kōrero:
The story so far...
Campfire Studios facilitates and produces inclusive digital kōrero for Māori and Pasifika communities. Our purpose is to amplify voices and create positive impact by using digital media to record, share, and preserve. Specifically, to reduce the intergenerational divide by nurturing authentic digital connections.
In 2022-2023, Campfire Studios partnered with the JR McKenzie Trust to launch DigiKōr (Digital Kōrero), a pioneering program that leverages podcasting to enhance literacy by focusing on oral language skills and fostering authentic connections.
In 2024, DigiKōr was approved by NZQA as a Level 2, 5 Credits skills standard, which means young Kiwis nationwide can now earn credits through podcasting. This is a first of its kind, and a rollout across the motu is in the works to make having a kōrero on a podcast the new norm. For more information, you can view the official NZQA document HERE.
Founder of Campfire Studios, Will Fleming, says the inspiration for DigiKōr came from his own background and experiences of finding it hard to read and write in school.
“I realised early on that the skill I had to develop, and ultimately master, was to learn how to talk to people. So, I’ve always had a deep kinship with communicating with other people via the face-to-face spoken word, and I think that’s the bedrock of this project.”
“Young people get to practise their oral communication, develop their digital literacy, connect with other generations, see their ideas come to life, and ultimately build pride in themselves and their mahi. Real connection happens when people come together for a deep and meaningful conversation, and the skills the young people are learning are transferable to all parts of their lives,” says Will.
DigiKōr empowers young people to strengthen bonds with their whānau, unlocking newfound confidence and communication skills. The shared oral history sessions have been transformative, allowing youth to talanoa (talk) freely with their elders in a safe space. Elders have reported feeling heard and sharing stories that might have otherwise remained untold. DigiKōr successfully promotes and highlights Māori and Pasifika traditions and oratory skills while utilising digital media to equip students with tools to amplify their voices.
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