Thursday, March 28, 2024, 10:10 AM
Site: Niuolahiki Online Learning
Course: Niuolahiki Online Learning (Niuolahiki Online Learning)
Glossary: Niuolahiki Testimonials

‘‘I am amazed

at the ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi skills I have mastered in such a short period of time. I belong to a hālau hula here in Canada, and having this opportunity to learn the Hawaiian language to enhance my hula is wonderful. Mahalo nui loa!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“A fantastic online

learning tool for any user. So easy to use! Mahalo Niuolahiki. E ola ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“A self-directed

online language program is so helpful in developing skills and retaining important concepts. Having access to the information gives numerous opportunities to review, practice and gain competency. The handouts, audio/video recordings, and self-paced learning and testing provide a relaxed challenging context for growth and mastery.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“Although I’ve been

exposed to the language all my life and even have had limited conversations in the language, this first lesson (of this program) explained the hows and whys and opened a huge window for me.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“As I improve

my vocabulary and get deeper into the lessons, I find a greater appreciation for the beauty of the language and itʻs depths. It is challenging, but very rewarding.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“Great

teachers, great support staff.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“ʻOi aku ka nui

o koʻu wiwo ʻole ma ka walaʻau Hawaiʻi ma kēia wā ma mua o ka wā mua.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“I am so very

excited to have begun learning Hawaiian Language. I am part Hawaiian so this is a deeply satisfying personal goal of mine, being of Hawaiian ancestry and a young adult living in Hawaiʻi during the 21st century, when everything here in Hawaiʻi is very much so Westernized, and as we speak, the times are continuing to change with the latest inventions in technology, such as the internet and computers, it’s nice to be able to have access and learn with all these new tools. And it’s also nice to see that the Hawaiian language is “Keeping up with the Joneses.” From my mokuna and haʻawina I am still very intrigued at how specific the rules of Hawaiian Language are and how actually complex they can be, and all of this to me is a natural indicator that our ancestors and kūpuna were greatly, greatly akamai in preserving and constructing a language all their own, that is still so very alive today! ʻĀ ʻoia! E ola ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi!” -Mona O., Hilo, HI., Niuolahiki self-directed Student

“I don’t think

I have ever felt so inspired by my Hawaiian culture until I enrolled in this class--Niuolahiki. For so long I have searched for that one thing that makes me feel so proud of my Hawaiian heritage and I found it. Thank you ʻAha Pūnana Leo for creating this program and offering it to those kānaka ma ka ʻāina ʻē. Nothing has made me more proud to be Hawaiian than to learn the language of my ancestors. Since my first class, the Hawaiian language has become a part of my every day life. I find ways to incorporate it into my home life and I enjoy practicing with my children. I can teach them what I have learned and give them a stronger foundation of the Hawaiian culture than what I had growing up. The language is the source and I will pass that on to my keiki. ʻO ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi ke kumu o ka poʻe Hawaiʻi a pono au e hāʻawi aku i ka ʻiʻini loa i kuʻu mau keiki e holomua ma ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. He kuleana kēia noʻu iho.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“I enjoyed studying

the Hawaiian language very much. It was a great experience. I would recommend (Niuolahiki) to my friends if they have a passion like I have.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“I have enjoyed

my studies in the Niuolahiki program since 2008, and plan to continue. If it was not for this program, I never would have been able to learn Hawaiian, as I live on the mainland. All of my kumu are dedicated teachers and have supported and encouraged me throughout the years. We would not be able to learn as we have without their aloha and continual support.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“I have thoroughly

enjoyed these well organized lessons. The practice provided after each lesson is excellent. It is easy to use and the accompanying materials that can be downloaded for a very inexpensive fee are terrific!” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“I hope to

inspire others who may be just like me, curious and perhaps who’ve wanted to learn but never did. Once they find out how automated and computer friendly the language can be obtained, their manaʻo might be influenced to go ahead and try it. I’ve always wanted to learn more of the language but the paths of life flow and I never got around to it until I took it upon myself to research on the internet. I knew ʻAha Pūnana Leo is one of the largest supporters and founders of Hawaiian language learning academically impacting the state and country with the ʻōlelo. It was on your website where I saw your distance learning program opportunity to learn Hawaiian language and my mind was made up instantly. Thank you for being you and all of the ʻohana who are a part of ʻAha Pūnana Leo and all of its branches as well as for your kōkua in preserving the fluency in the ways of our ancestors, thank you for making the difference and being a part of something that is special, unique and magical!” -Mona O., Hilo, HI., Niuolahiki self-directed Student

“I wanted to

learn Hawaiian. I found Niuolahiki and now I'm doing it at my own pace and on my own time, this is great. Mahalo.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“I would hope

to get more people on board especially the local people who could benefit from our ‘ōlelo.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“Learning Hawaiian

through the self-directed distance learning program is already helping me understand the Hawaiian music that I love listening to.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“Living here in

the SF Bay Area, I am hearing indigenous languages being spoken in public more often. I am so grateful to have remote access to Hawaiian master teachers to learn my ʻōlelo makuahine because it makes me feel like I'm part of a bigger, growing wave of language revitalization spanning many nations.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed/Papa Kamaʻilio Student

“Living on the

Mainland U.S., this is my only link to my hope in someday being able to speak the Hawaiian language fluently.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“Mai ka manawa mua

aʻu i komo ai i loko o kēia papahana, ua hoʻolako ʻia koʻu ola. ʻO ia hoʻi, hiki iaʻu ke ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi a hiki ke hōʻike i koʻu mau manaʻo ma ka ʻōlelo a nā kūpuna. He pōmaikaʻi maoli nō ia. Ma muli o kēia papahana i hoʻoikaika ʻia ai koʻu hilinaʻi ma koʻu naʻau a pehea au e noʻonoʻo ai he Hawaiʻi au. No nā mea kamaʻāina ʻole i ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi a he Hawaiʻi lākou, ʻaʻole lākou ʻike eia ke ala kūpono e hele ai i loaʻa ka haʻaheo e pili ana i ko lākou wahi hānau. No koʻu aʻo ʻana i ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, he ʻo iaʻiʻo kēia a he lanakila ka papahana ʻo Niuolahiki!” -ʻĀlika C., Sacramento, CA., Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“Motivation:

This class provides the community that gives me the strength to keep going! Cultural context: This helps me to understand my family and where we come from.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“My dream is to

have numerous fluent speakers of the Hawaiian language on the Mainland U.S. and that the Hawaiian language be taught in our schools and colleges.These courses are giving me the opportunity to hold onto my hope that my dream will someday become a reality, as they bring it closer to fruition by serving to inspire Hawaiians and Hawaiians at heart to fully revitalize and learn this mana-filled beautful language.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“My mom's side

of the family is all Hawaiian and my dad's family is from England. I'm white but I am very very proud to be part-Hawaiian. My uncles and aunts can speak Hawaiian and I'm very excited to soon be able to communicate with everyone.” :) -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“Nicely paced and

beautifully narrated by native speakers these lessons gave me confidence I can learn the Hawaiian language. Mahalo!” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“No ka poʻe

e noho ʻole ana ma Hawaiʻi, hiki ke aʻo i ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. He mea pōmaikaʻi nō ia!” -Niuolahiki Papa Kamaʻilio Student

“No nā mea

kamaʻāina ʻole i kēia papahana, pono e pili a e komo piha mai. He mau mea mamao mākou, nā haumāna, mai Hawaiʻi akā, ua loaʻa iā mākou he mālamalama e hahai aku ai. ʻO Niuolahiki ko kākou kahua!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“Nui koʻu mahalo

i kēia papahana ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi a me ka hana nui o nā mea a pau pili i ka papahana.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“Our Hawaiian

language is beautiful. Help this beauty continue to grow! Learn Hawaiian!” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“Taking these courses

helps me toward the goal of learning to speak Hawaiian.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“Thank you for

teaching ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi in this technologically creative way that enables people all over the world to learn and perpetuate this beautiful, fascinating language and to feel the aloha across the miles that is so special to Hawaiʻi.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed/Papa Kamaʻilio Student

“The ʻAha Pūnana Leo

Niuolahiki program provides a thorough understanding and implementation of the Hawaiian language that cannot be found anywhere else. The program allows the student to move at a comfortable self-paced rate which makes for a solid understanding of the language. A wonderful experience.” -Dr. James B. (KimoB), Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“The lessons are

broken down simply and with clarity. I love the way they reinforce concepts through repetition.” -Jacqueline N., Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“The Niuloahiki

program allows for a effective and efficient way to learn the Hawaiian language. This distance based learning program allows for a convenient and enjoyable way to develop sound skills and knowledge of the Hawaiian language. Offered at an incredibly reasonable price, this program is a true bargain particularly when what is of primary importance–preservation of the Hawaiian culture. Mahalo nui loa!” -KimoB, Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“The Niuolahiki

Hawaiian Language Distance Learning program is exactly what I need to learn Hawaiian language at my own pace at times fitting my work schedule.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“The Niuolahiki online

Hawaiian language program has been the seed for a journey covering far more ground than I ever anticipated when I first enrolled. Studying the Hawaiian language was, and still is, an integral facet in the rediscovery of my Hawaiian ‘ohana, in comprehending the influence of Hawaiian culture on my upbringing, and exploring my spirituality. The rewards of participating in Niuolahiki have far exceeded my initial expectations.” -Kimo W., Waynesville, NC., Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“The Pūnana Leo

Hawaiian Language Online Classes are very helpful & educational. These classes and lessons teach you the fundamentals to learn to use & speak Hawaiian Language in contemporary daily use. I found these lessons to be extremely helpful, I never knew about the different rules for arranging sentences & phrases, can't wait to learn more! Maikaʻi, A Hui Hou!” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“These classes

are helping me to be more supportive of my moʻopuna as he is in kindergarten at the ʻAha Pūnana Leo school in Keaʻau.” -Kupuna haumāna Nāwahī & Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“These classes are

a treasure for those of us living on the continent wanting to learn the language of our kūpuna. Since we don't have access to classroom instruction here, these courses give us a rare opportunity. They are a real blessing.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“This course

gives you an appreciation for the Hawaiian language, step-by-step lessons with activities to make sure you are understanding the concepts, a self-paced course, and the motivation to learn more!” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“This distance learning

program is well organized, easy to follow and thorough.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“This helps me to

hui with those who want to take responsibility in perpetuating ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi and to come together with others trying to achieve their palapala (degree) ma ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“This is a wonderful

way to begin exploring the language. The lessons combine practical knowledge with insightful commentaries on the differences between ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi and English.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“This is an

outstanding on-line, initial entry course into the Hawaiian language (Chapter 1).” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“This is an excellent

course absolutely worth the money spent for it. There should be more such language courses on the web, particularly for endangered languages.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“This provides

extra tutoring and review for my HAW101, 102 college courses.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“This self-directed

distance learning program has provided myself and family with the opportunity to remain a part of the meaningful movement to fully reestablish the Hawaiian language despite living now in Canada, with greatest appreciation, mahalo nui loa, Ola!” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“This was a

well-presented introduction to the Hawaiian language, with testing along the way to reinforce what was learned.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“Topnotch instructor

and leadership makes communicative interaction rewarding and pleasurable. Mahalo nui loa e Kumu Nā‘ilima.” -Niuolahiki Papa Kamaʻilio Student

“Ua holomua nō

au i kēlā kau aku nei me ke kōkua o Kumu Nāʻilima. Ua hoʻoulu ʻia au e hoʻomau a e hana i nā haʻawina me ka wiwo ʻole.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“Ua loaʻa mai iaʻu

he mau mākau koʻikoʻi i hiki iaʻu ke holomua i ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. Ua mākaukau wau i kēia papa me ke kumu no ka papa kamaʻilio a palena ʻole koʻu mahalo i ke kumu no nā mea aʻu i aʻo mai ai i loko o ia papa. He koa ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi au ma ka ʻāina ʻē a ʻo Niuolahiki ke kumu!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“Ua ulu koʻu ʻike

e pili ana i ke kuanaʻike Hawaiʻi, ka moʻomeheu Hawaiʻi a me nā ʻaoʻao ʻehā o ka mauli ola. Mahalo nui ʻia ka manawa kūpono no ka hoʻolohe ʻana aku i nā kānaka Hawaiʻi i kipa mai i ka papa. Ua ulu nō hoʻi koʻu ʻike e pili ana i nā kuanaʻike like ʻole o nā haumāna e noho ana ma nā ʻāina like ʻole.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

“What a blessing

to have updated books and material to study the Hawaiian language. This course is an invaluable tool for those of us living on the U.S. Continent.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

“いくつか

の構文を習得できた単語を習得できた。” -Niuolahiki Self/Teacher-directed Student, HAA, Tōkyō, Japan

“ハワイ語

の文法を理解しました。ハワイアンとちょっとした会話はできましたよ。” -Niuolahiki Self/Teacher-directed Student, HAA, Tōkyō, Japan

“期間の

短い中ではありましたが簡単な文法を基礎から学ぶ事ができました。” -Niuolahiki Self/Teacher-directed Student, HAA, Tōkyō, Japan
ʻ

ʻʻAny type of

correspondence or online class takes dedication and a strong desire to learn on the part of the student. I believe this is especially true in learning a language by a method outside the classroom. However, the truly important other half of a course is the kumu who teaches it. My kumu for the Niuolahiki online Hawaiian language program have been extremely supportive and encouraging, answering all of my questions and providing extra resource material for me to study - even taking time out of their busy schedules to correct extra assignments I create for myself. -Likolani T., Everett, WA., Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻAt first, I thought

this class was too difficult to follow or understand, but after going through the lessons it wasn't! I love participating in this self-directed class. I'm looking forward to continuing on to the next chapter. This a great way to learn Hawaiian language!” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

ʻʻI am a fan!

Your methodological approach to teaching the language makes it very accessible to anyone with interest. I am a firm believer that for adults, learning the grammar first, makes the success of immersion significantly higher. Given our schedules, not all of us can attend a physical course, but the Niuolahiki course, making use of technology makes this all possible. The program is great!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻI am a hula dancer

in Canada and have fallen in love with beauty of the Hawaiian language used in many of the songs and chants that I perform. The Niuolahiki program is essential for anyone who wants to learn ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. The skills I have learned in such a short time have greatly increased my ability to speak Hawaiian. I even started dreaming in the Hawaiian language! I plan on continuing my studies with this program and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone! It's a real gift to be able to study online with this program! Mahalo nui loa!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻI am enjoying

very much the new version of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi on-line! It is easy to access with just a simple web browser and all the information I need to get immersed in the beautiful Hawaiian language is right there. I found that knowing a little Hawaiian made my visit to the Islands much more meaningful - I started seeing words and phrases in many contexts that allowed me to appreciate Hawaiian culture in ways that is not possible without a sense for the language. Me ka mahalo from a grateful haumāna.” -ʻIkepela H., Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

ʻʻI am so excited

to start this online program that I just signed up for. My ʻohana and I currently live in a small northern California town and we don’t have the option to take a Hawaiian language class, dance or anything to do with our culture. We would have to drive about 75 miles to attend any kind of Hawaiian event. We are so grateful for the online Hawaiian language class. It allows my boys and I to learn together without having to drive miles away which would take time away from the rest of my ʻohana. I grew up learning certain Hawaiian phrases and words but because we traveled the world the language was lost. Majority of my ʻohana in the islands are pretty fluent so it is a blessing that we are able to learn our native language from home. Mahalo Nui!” -Leilani E., Oroville, CA., Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

ʻʻI am very happy

to have found this program, as I love the Hawaiian language. This program has allowed me to progress in the studying, understanding and speaking of the the Hawaiian language in ways I would not have available to me otherwise.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻI enjoy this

distance learning program, because I can do the lessons when I'm able...no need to find parking...I'm right at home. This program is good for me..a kupuna...keeps the mind alert.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻI feel privileged

to have had the opportunity to take the courses I have taken so far with the teachers I have been able to learn from. Thank you for continuing this long-distance learning program.” -Polinahe A., Roswell, GA., Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻI first visited Hawaiʻi

in 2001. Like many other malihini, I immediately fell in love with EVERYTHING Hawaiian. Your program was recommended to me, I signed up for the first class, and have been very happy with the progress I have made since. If one is willing and able to invest the time in study, there is much to be gained from this type of learning environment. It is also a great outreach tool on behalf of a proud and beautiful culture and language. The staff (all of whom I someday hope to meet in person) are dedicated, aloha-filled, and very helpful folks who have blessed and enriched my life, and I highly recommend the Niuolahiki Distance Learning Program to anyone interested in learning the language of Hawaiʻi.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻI have experienced

the deep aloha my online kumu (and all connected with the program) have for the ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi and culture through their desire and willingness to share so much with me. They give me the confidence and tools to continue and know that I definitely can accomplish my goal through my Niuolahiki online class.” -Likolani T., Everett, WA., Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻI have learned

so much by participating in this distance learning program. I travel a lot for work, and I can take my lessons with me in the hotel!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻI have taken

a number of distance learning courses in the past but none have been a language course. I was a little skeptical about how I could possibly learn to speak ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi via the internet. However, the course materials were wonderful and I have learned not only the language but more about the Hawaiian culture. The kumu for the course was extremely helpful and I was amazed by how much I learned in a few short months! I am very thankful to ʻAha Pūnana Leo for giving me the opportunity to learn so much. Since I live on the U.S. continent, it would have been impossible for me to start mastering the language without them.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻI must say

that I am thoroughly enjoying this course. I have been trying to learn to speak Hawaiian for what seems forever. In fact, I just about gave up when I received an email inviting me to visit ʻAha Pūnana Leo's website for the Hawaiian language and to look at the course being offered. I have taken courses in the past that didn't pan out. I had to drop the courses because of the distance I had to drive every week to attend classes; or they were for one day only, or after two or three classes they would be canceled. Very frustrating! It's wonderful that I can now learn at my own pace and in the comfort of my home.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

ʻʻI was just telling

a friend how much I preferred this way of learning because I need to review the lessons a LOT before I feel I've absorbed it, and this way lets me pause, reread and review the material without feeling like I'm holding others back as I would in a regular classroom. Also, I like that I can fit it into my day when I have the time and can concentrate, rather than rushing to a class at a certain time in some other part of town. I really do love this! Mahalo.” -Sue M., San Francisco, CA., Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

ʻʻI was raised

during the time when the language was not taught in the home. My mother spoke the language fluently and my tūtū guys spoke no English. How can it be that we were never taught the language of our ancestors? The answer to that question is, “because it was a time when to speak Hawaiian was frowned on and not encouraged.” We all know that era and many of us who grew up during that time are now seeking to learn the language. This course is giving us the chance we never had. It is filling that void that we had no say in as we grew up. I thank ʻAha Pūnana Leo for stepping up and creating this language course. So many more of us will now learn to speak the Hawaiian language and have that much more of a chance to teach our future generations. And yes, the Hawaiian language will live on for generations to come.” -Māwae C., Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

ʻʻIt has been a

wonderful experience for me to learn the Hawaiian language online these past few years, and has become one of the most important events in my life. Learning the language as an adult is sometimes a challenge, but the rewards have been tremendous. Nothing gives me greater joy than to know I am a part of the revitalization and perpetuation of the Hawaiian language and that I am doing my part in the endeavor to revive the language from near extinction.” -Pohonui K., Olympia, WA., Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻIt is my greatest

hope that the Hawaiian language of our ancestors once more flourishes on the Hawaiian Islands and continues to reach out, embrace, and join hands with those abroad. The online classes at Niuolahiki are an integral part of connecting those of Hawaiian ancestry and others who are connected to Hawaiʻi through their aloha, to the heartbeat of the Hawaiian people - their beloved language. E ola ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi! The Hawaiian language shall live!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻLearning Hawaiian

in a structured manner is the biggest plus of this program - this makes the whys of the language very transparent, and therefore makes it easier to apply.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻLiving on the

U.S. continent, there are few opportunities for studying Hawaiian. These courses helped give me a foundation and the beginning of understanding the language and the culture. Excellent way to deepen one's appreciation for hula and Hawaiian music. Mahalo nunui!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻMahalo nui loa

for all your dedication to ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi and to the preservation of the unique and beautiful Hawaiian culture. E ola ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi! The Hawaiian language shall live!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻMy kumu and several

of my hula brothers and sisters are taking the classes and they are thoroughly enjoying them! One hula sister says it has really helped her understand the mele and oli we learn, and helps her appreciate our dancing even more. Mahalo.” -Mary D., Napa, CA., Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

ʻʻNiuolahiki

keeps me on track and making progress in a way that fits into my schedule.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻNiuolahiki is

an exceptional program! It's so exciting to be able to learn ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi with such great resources and teachers. I have learned so much and am so grateful for a program like this!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻNiuolahiki is an

exceptional program! It's so exciting to be able to learn ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi with such great resources and teachers. I have learned so much and am so grateful for a program like this!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻStudying a language

alone is very challenging and a lack of learning materials for Hawaiian means that it is easy to soon give up. The distance learning program is much more than an online textbook with writing and listening exercises. It is the ideal situation of a living community of teachers and classmates who help push each other along in learning Hawaiian. If you soon give up or think you will never learn the language, give this community a try! I am here to stay!” -ʻAnalū C., Fukuoka, Japan, Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThe classes are

stimulating. I especially appreciate the clarity of the speakers. I am hearing impaired but I have no problems understanding the spoken words. The speakers are very articulate in their enunciation of each word.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

ʻʻThe distance learning

program was nice since I live In Tennessee and I can still take this Hawaiian course. Mahalo for the wonderful experience.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThe main reason

why I moved to Hawaiʻi after starting my formal Hawaiian language education with ʻAha Pūnana Leo’s distance learning program (while living in California), is to cultivate the bilingual cultural values that existed prior to the illegal overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy.” -Malulani O., Kailua-Kona, HI., Past Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student and Current OHA Trustee At-Large Candidate

ʻʻThe Niuolahiki

Hawaiian Language Program has surpassed all of my expectations for its effectiveness in teaching the structure and pronunciation of the Hawaiian Language.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThe Niuolahiki program

gave me a wonderful insight into ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. Although I am not from Hawaiʻi, this program has become an important part in my daily life. Mahalo nunui! Aloha!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThe Niuolahiki program is

an excellent way for beginning students to learn Hawaiian because the underlying structure of the language is clearly explained. Understanding the reasons behind the grammar has given me confidence that I am using the language properly. I recommend the course for any age (and I am 49!).” -Kekoa L., Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThe program has

enhanced my learning so much!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThe work that

goes into offering these courses is enormous, I am sure. I thank everyone in the Niuolahiki program, and at ʻAha Pūnana Leo. E ola ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. The Hawaiian language shall live!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThese classes have

deepened my understanding of hula and the Hawaiian culture. I appreciate the supportive approach taken by the instructors.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThis class was

very effective and taught me very much about not only Hawaiian language but also Hawaiian culture.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed High School Student

ʻʻThis course is

a relatively easy way to become more paʻa with the Hawaiian language and to better appreciate the Hawaiian culture.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThis distance learning

program has been an awesome experience. I have not only learned the grammatical basis of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi but have been able to start learning how to speak it appropriately.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThis program

is terrific. Now I have a solid foundation in my study of the Hawaiian language. On to the next level!” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThis program for

online learning is important. These are hard working teachers who are dedicated to spreading the knowledge of learning the Hawaiian Language. They are passionate about their role in teaching. They are a wealth of knowledge, cultural and tradition. What better way to learn this beautiful language? The importance of their message should be shared with everyone. There is no way that I could fulfill my dream without them.” -Pat G., Cape May, NJ., Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

ʻʻThis program has

allowed me to learn Hawaiian properly and quickly because it ties the language to the culture and Hawaiian point of view. The classes are the next best thing to being there in Hilo, because of the inventive methods used. Their creative approach, using voice files and telecommunication, has let me speak Hawaiian with people from Germany to Japan and around the U.S., improving my conversational skills as well as making friends. The teachers understand the challenges and are always very encouraging. I am very grateful for the opportunity to participate.” -Kalā W., Hamden, CT., Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻThis program is

highly recommended for anyone who desires to keep the Hawaiian language and culture alive.” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

ʻʻThis self-directed

distance learning program has provided myself and family with the opportunity to remain a part of the meaningful movement to fully reestablish the Hawaiian language despite living now in Canada. With greatest appreciation, mahalo nui loa, E Ola!” -Niuolahiki Self-directed Student

ʻʻThis was my first

course and I loved it - I got over my fear of technology and learned the value of distance learning through a truly sophisticated and thoughtful program. Because I have a busy schedule, I appreciated the flexibility, the immediate and feedback on homework, and the way that my teacher was able to give personal comments on assignments and questions. I would not hesitate to continue as a student and thank ʻAha Pūnana Leo for this service to all of us who love Hawaiʻi and live far away.” -Niuolahiki Teacher-directed Student

ʻʻWe had the

great pleasure of meeting Aunty ʻEkekela, Kēhaulani, and Janice last week in the workshop for our new school, Paʻa, here in San Diego. They really had a big part in helping us find our sense of place, who we are and where we want to be. And learning the Hawaiian language is one of our first steps. We will never forget everything that they taught to us during their time in San Diego and we promise to do our best to pass that knowledge on so that it will not be forgotten or lost. We love them with all our heart and we owe a lot of thanks to them for everything! We are hoping to move back home someday soon and enroll our keiki in the Pūnana Leo schools before they get any older. That is our goal, but for now we are so thankful that we have Paʻa. Mahalo again to everyone that has worked so hard to put all these programs together. It really means more than we can describe with words.” -ʻOhana Eaton, San Diego, CA., Ke Ola O Ka Mauli Workshop August 2010 Participants