Tok stori as pedagogy: an approach to school leadership education in Solomon Islands

Abstract

Tok stori is a Melanesian form of dialogical engagement. Although it has been generally associated with informal activities, this article points to the potential of tok stori as a pedagogical or teaching process. Set in a school leadership programme spread across the Solomon Islands, the discussion illustrates the value of approaching the education of school leaders through their own experiences and in a manner to which they are accustomed. Data are drawn from the stories of programme mentors. Of particular relevance are the relational implications of tok stori as these frame learning, the kinds of learning facilitated by tok stori, gender and the restricted nature of some knowledge, and the openness of tok stori to encourage and promote learning beyond the initial scope of a programme. Although tok stori can be informal, the data suggest that effective professional learning can take place through tok stori as pedagogy. As one amongst a number of traditional oral forms across the region and beyond, the claims made for tok stori in this context provide further support for the inclusion of Indigenous approaches to development work in and beyond Solomon Islands. This is important if development aid is to move to a new level of efficacy.

Curating a connected community in virtual space: Solomon Islands Research Mentoring Tok Stori

“…Evans et al (2010) describe tok stori in PNG as "an oral tradition where reflections on issues or problems are undertaken dialogically" (p. 83); and in the Solomon Islands context, Iromea and Reynolds (2021) refer to the tok stori space as open or free, relational and concerned with "balance, unity and safety" (p. 35). As an orality, tok stori has been used in leadership development (Sanga et al, 2021), development studies (de la Torre Parra, 2021), peace-making (Talanoa & Development Project, 2005) and project evaluation (Paulsen & Spratt, 2020).…”

“…The data in this section suggests the effectiveness of tok stori as an orality to create a safe discursive space, even in the digital realm. An aspect of safety is the way emotions are expected and welcomed in tok stori because of its holistic orientation (Sanga et al, 2021). Because the presence of the whole person is anticipated, affective support can be offered through the warmth created when emotions are expressed, recognised, valued and subject to appreciative response.…”