Aloha mai no, aloha aku; when aloha is received, aloha should be given in return (Pukui #113). This is the guiding principle in our approach to teaching and learning at Pilina ʻŌiwi, meaning that our interactions and intentions are reciprocal. You can expect to be met with aloha, no matter your background or familiarity with Hawaiʻi lifeways; in turn, it is expected that you treat the knowledge and people in your program with that same aloha. We learn from each other.

When you begin Kūkulu Pūnana ʻIke, knowledge nest building classes, you become part of a cohort, and while you study the class content at your own convenience, the cohort attends the live zoom practice discussions together on scheduled days (once every 2-3 weeks). Classes are largely self-guided video lessons, which learners can do at their own pace and repeat as needed. PDFs are available for download, and any other materials are mailed to learners.