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DigiKōr Builds Confidence and Belonging Through Podcasting

DigiKōr is a Level 2, 5 Credits skills standard approved by NZQA, supporting high school students to build their oral language skills and connect with their culture through podcasting.​

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DigiKōr founder, Will Fleming, is a neurodiverse learner. Will’s dyslexia led him to focus on his strong oral communication skills, making literacy more accessible. DigiKōr harnesses the rich oral traditions of Māori and Pasifika cultures, fostering authentic connections that empower young people and make literacy accessible.

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. Thanks to the success of DigiKōr, the program has received approval from NZQA as a Level 2, 5-credit skills standard.


Looking ahead, DigiKōr aims to expand its reach to over 60 high schools across Aotearoa by 2027, providing more students with the opportunity to benefit from this innovative approach to literacy education.
 

For more information, you can view the official NZQA skills standard HERE.

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Quotes and Insights from Students

 

Student 1:
"I discovered that when interviewing guests, you have to listen carefully and then follow up with relevant questions. It's taught me a lot about being adaptable and confident in conversations."

Student 2:
"My favourite moment was speaking with a special guest. It helped me deal with my nervousness and gain confidence. This experience has been invaluable in learning how to communicate better."

Student 3:
"I was always encouraged to, you know, not be nervous, to, you know, just let it all flow out and that it'll come naturally. But yeah, that's probably the biggest thing I've learned is, yeah, it helped me with my confidence as well."

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DigiKōr's Expansion Strategy
DigiKōr plans to roll out to 30 to 60 high schools through a structured three-year expansion strategy. In 2025, the first year following its seed and development phase, DigiKōr will expand into South Auckland and Franklin high schools and community hubs. In 2026, the initiative will extend to West Auckland and Northland high schools through the DigiKōr portal. Supported by evidence of impact, we plan to present to the Ministry of Education by 2026 to further expand the initiative, ultimately reaching 60 to 100 schools nationwide. This expansion aims to empower students with essential digital and communication skills through oral storytelling.

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  • 2025:

    • Expand into South Auckland and Franklin schools and community hubs.

    • Develop DigiKōr Level 3.

    2026:

    • Implement DigiKōr Level 2 and Level 3 via the DigiKōr portal.

    • Extend to West Auckland and Northland families through the DigiKōr portal.

    • Present evidence of impact to the Ministry of Education for further expansion.

  • 2027:

    • Work with 60 to 100 plus high schools nationwide.


The DigiKōr Portal
The DigiKōr portal is a pivotal tool in transforming digital education, seamlessly tying into our mission to empower young people and preserve Māori and Pasifika oral traditions. By providing a wealth of educational resources, the portal enhances accessibility and enriches learning experiences. For educators, comprehensive training programmes and support services ensure effective teaching, while interactive tools engage students in dynamic and creative ways. This innovative platform bridges traditional and digital learning, fostering stronger connections within whānau and communities.

Positive Impact on Schools and Society

  • Empowering Educators: DigiKōr provides teachers with innovative tools to engage students in meaningful learning experiences, promoting active participation and collaboration.

  • Strengthening School Communities: Schools become vibrant hubs of creativity and expression, fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all students.

  • Societal Benefits: As young people develop into confident, articulate individuals, they contribute positively to society, bringing fresh perspectives and a commitment to preserving and celebrating cultural diversity.

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Explore DigiKōr in depth with this feature in the Education Gazette... Learn more here

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