Understanding E Ola! Learner Outcomes: A Comprehensive Guide

The Kamehameha Schools' E Ola! program represents a commitment to nurturing well-rounded learners grounded in Hawaiian values and prepared for success in a globalized world. This article delves into the definition of E Ola! learner outcomes, exploring their origins, components, assessment methods, and significance within the Kamehameha Schools curriculum. Additionally, it examines the concept of "e-ola learners" in the context of digital education and the support systems available to them.

Defining E Ola! Learner Outcomes

E Ola! refers to the desired outcomes identified for all Kamehameha Schools graduates. E Ola! is KS' Curricular Framework, or set of learner outcomes grounded in kuana ʻike Hawaiʻi (Native Hawaiian perspectives), and our enterprise-wide identity.

Collectively, the E Ola! Transfer Goals define the Academic Competence outcome of E Ola!. These Transfer Goals are long-term discipline-specific outcomes for ten (10) different content areas. The E Ola! Curriculum Blueprint depicts the connection between the curricular components of E Ola!. The Transfer Goals are the long-term discipline-specific outcomes; all other E Ola!

Origins of the E Ola! Initiative

During the 2015-16 school year, a group of Nā Kula educators representing various roles came together to define student outcomes for KS learners that align with SV 2040. Soon thereafter, a group, including community education, came together to build upon this work and establish learner outcomes for all students in our campuses and community-based programs. The resulting document became the E Ola!

The E Ola! Curricular Framework

The E Ola! Curricular Framework is comprised of the E Ola! Learning Progressions, the Nā Kula o Kamehameha Transfer Goals and Rubrics, and Overarching Understandings and Essential Questions for all E Ola! Learner Outcomes and Transfer Goals. The Curricular Framework articulates all the content specific transfer goals and rubrics, and transdisciplinary outcomes and learning progressions.

Assessing E Ola! Learner Outcomes

Kamehameha Schools e Ola program employs a comprehensive assessment strategy that encompasses various methods such as performance tasks, projects, and reflective journals. Each of these tools is designed to measure not only academic competencies but also social-emotional skills and cultural understanding. Feedback from educators and peer assessments play a critical role in this process, allowing students to receive support tailored to their individual needs. Additionally, the program integrates self-assessment techniques, empowering learners to reflect on their growth and set personal learning goals. This multifaceted approach ensures that outcomes are aligned with their vision of nurturing the holistic development of each learner.

While we will be able to continue to use some system-wide assessments (e.g. MAP) for monitoring, measuring, and planning purposes, new assessments will also need to be identified and/or developed to match the uniqueness of E Ola!.

Expected Learner Outcomes from the E Ola! Program

Kamehameha Schools e Ola program aims to develop well-rounded learners who are capable of thriving in both local and global contexts. The expected learner outcomes include a comprehensive understanding of Hawaiian culture, strong academic skills, social-emotional development, and readiness for post-secondary education and employment. The program encourages students to become active, responsible members of their communities while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Furthermore, the holistic approach ensures that cultural identity is integrated into all learning areas, preparing learners to navigate and contribute positively to the modern world while remaining connected to their heritage.

The development of the Learners’ Strong Foundation is based in knowledge of world and Hawaiian history and genealogy (Ike Kupuna), care for the land (Alohaaina), and Kupono--honorable character based in Hawaiian and Christian values. The development (and develop in themselves) a sense of Learners’ Native Hawaiian Identity. The key elements of identity as defined by our E Ola! Learner Outcomes can be applied universally and globally, as the E Ola!

Kula-Level Implementation and Professional Development

Each kula (KSH, KSM, KSK, Nā Kula Kamaliʻi) develops and implements a student learning improvement plan (Nāleimauliola) that aligns curriculum, instruction, and assessment practices to E Ola!. B-Credit courses may be offered at a KS system and/or kula level to provide professional learning for kumu/educators around E Ola!. The E Ulu! Educator Growth and Evaluation Process provides educators with the opportunity to set professional growth goals and design a professional growth plan to develop their capacity to support students in achieving the E Ola!

Read also: Temporary Learner Insurance

Communicating E Ola! to ʻOhana

Initially, our CEO and Education Vice-President held sessions to introduce E Ola! to ʻohana and community members. As campuses continue to engage and partner with ʻohana, ongoing and customized communication about progress toward E Ola!

The Significance of Learner Outcomes in the Kamehameha e Ola Curriculum

The significance of learner outcomes in the Kamehameha e Ola curriculum lies in their role as a foundational element that shapes educational experiences and objectives. By clearly defining expectations and goals, these outcomes ensure that the curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of students while aligning with the broader mission of the Kamehameha Schools. Outcomes include both academic and personal growth, focusing on cultural identity, leadership, and social responsibility. This dual approach not only helps students excel academically but also nurtures their development into informed citizens who can positively impact their communities. In this way, learner outcomes serve as both a guiding compass and a measurable tool for assessing success, fostering a holistic learning environment that reflects the program’s values and goals.

Kūpono: A Core Value of E Ola!

To help employees understand E Ola! and how we should be applying it in our daily work, the Legal/HR group planned Lunch & Learn sessions to "unpack", or dig into, the outcomes which are the Learners' Strong Foundation. Today we talked about kūpono, which in the context of E Ola! is defined as "honorable character founded on Hawaiian and Christian values". Employees and haumāna (students) are encouraged to uphold kūpono through actions such as extending aloha to others, taking responsibility for their actions, caring for others and themselves, and making ethical decisions. The "Law of the Splintered Paddle" is a famous story about Kamehameha ʻEkahi which can be related to the principle of kūpono.

E-Ola Learners in the Digital Age

E-ola learners are those who focus on digital learning environments, accessing content through various online platforms. They often utilize technology to enhance their learning experience, leveraging tools such as videos, interactive content, and assessments provided through learning management systems. This approach to education has grown significantly due to the flexibility and accessibility it offers, allowing learners to engage at their own pace and convenience.

Supporting E-Ola Learners with UMU

Platforms like UMU offer tailored solutions to support e-ola learners, providing resources for corporate training and employee development. UMU's support for e-ola learners includes tailored digital learning solutions that cater to various corporate training needs. The platform allows organizations to design specific training programs that foster employee growth and development. By integrating micro-learning formats, such as videos and interactive modules, UMU enables learners to engage with content in a flexible manner. Additionally, the platform facilitates real-time feedback and assessments, which are crucial for tracking progress and ensuring knowledge retention. With features aimed at promoting collaboration and interactivity, UMU enhances the overall learning experience, making it not only effective but also enjoyable.

The Role of Cultural Identity

Cultural identity is central to the program, ensuring that learners connect with their heritage and values.

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