#46 - Dr Melissa Derby - The Power of Reading and High Aspirations

Falling literacy rates are a concern in New Zealand and developed countries around the world.

The future generations of New Zealanders are based on the early foundations we set in childhood. But if we don't get literacy right, how can we expect children to one day become global leaders in health, education and science?

Strong literacy skills are for everyone, not just for those who can afford private tuition. How we teach in public education and how we encourage behaviours in the home environment can make a world of difference to children in even the poorest most disadvantaged communities.

Even how we frame disadvantage can have its harms. Can we really improve disparities with the widely disseminated deficit mindset of low expectations?

Joining me on this episode is Dr Melissa Derby of Ngāti Ranginui. She is a Senior Lecturer at the Waikato University, Director of the Early Years Research Centre and part of the ministerial advisory group to the minister for education.