Rate My Professor Telesia Kalavite

Dr Kalavite's research spans Pacific educational development, achievement of Pacific students, education for sustainable development, culture and educational achievement, Tongan-English translations, Time-Space Theory of Reality (Tā Vā) and academic success for Pacific peoples, Christianity and educational development, indigenous development, language and educational development, climate change impacts on indigenous development, and social justice for migrant education. Key publications include 'Indigenous Intergenerational Relational Rhythms: Sustaining Tongan Language and Culture Across Time (Tā) and Space (Vā)' (Art/Research International, 2024), 'Walking the Talk in Field Research: Embracing Fijian Values in Fieldwork' (Routledge Handbook of Field Research, 2026, co-authored with J.R. Maiono and D. Ruwhiu), and 'Toungāue Cooperative Pedagogy for Tongan Tertiary Students' Success' (Waikato Journal of Education, 2020). She teaches PACI 103 Languages and Cultures of the Pacific, PACI 210 Special Topic: Pacific Education, and PACI 405 Indigenous Leadership in the Pacific. Awards encompass University of Waikato Tertiary Achievement in Pacific Ako Awards (2010, 2009, 2008), Pacific Excellence Award (2006), University of Otago Research Grants including UORG (2023) on changing Tongan wedding practices and Pacific Thought Network grants (2022–2025, 2019–2021), AUSAID Scholarships for MEd (1998–1999) and BA (1990–1991), and New Zealand Ministry of Education Pacific Postgraduate Study Award (2005–2006).