Hiria McRae from Victoria University's Faculty of Education developed 
the model as part of her doctoral research on science education in Rotorua.
Hiria McRae from Victoria University's Faculty of Education developed the model as part of her doctoral research on science education in Rotorua.
It focused on the experience of Maori students, their teachers and local elders located in one of her tribal areas-Ngati Whakaue.
Dr McRae found that students connected their sense of belonging and engagement to a place with being with loved ones.
She said when teaching science involves or acknowledges important relationships in the students' lives, this may improve their engagement.