Whakataukī | Proverb

"Ka mua, ka muri"

Walking backwards into the future

We honor the past while moving forward. This timeline shows how educational theory has evolved, building on the wisdom of those who came before us.

📅 Pedagogical Timeline

Explore the evolution of educational theory from the 1800s to today. Click on any theorist to learn more.

About This Timeline

This interactive timeline shows key educational theorists and their contributions, arranged chronologically. Each node represents a theorist whose work has influenced education in Aotearoa New Zealand and worldwide. Click on any node to learn more about their contributions and how their work informs Te Kete Ako resources.

The timeline is continuously updated as we document more theorists and their influence on contemporary teaching practice.

Mātauranga Māori Lens

The history of pedagogy in Aotearoa includes mātauranga Māori traditions of knowledge transmission that predate Western schooling by centuries. Tikanga, wānanga, and oral traditions carried te ao Māori across generations. Whakapapa connects contemporary educators to this deep pedagogical lineage. Kaitiakitanga calls us to carry these traditions forward.

Classroom Application

Use this pedagogical timeline to locate your own teaching influences. Next step: identify two or three theorists or movements that resonate with your practice, and use the linked resources to deepen your understanding. Share a "pedagogical whakapapa" with your class or colleagues — where does your teaching philosophy come from?

Puna Kōrero — Sources

Dewey, J. (1938). Experience and Education. New York: Kappa Delta Pi.

Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in Society. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.

Hattie, J. (2009). Visible Learning. London: Routledge.

Bishop, R., & Glynn, T. (1999). Culture Counts. Palmerston North: Dunmore Press.