The journey between Western and indigenous research paradigms

Area of Science:

• Indigenous research methodologies
• Community-based participatory action research (CBPR)
• Postcolonial and critical social theory in Indigenous research

Background:

• A White researcher's experience preparing for a CBPR study with Mi'kmaq men.
• Examination of postcolonial theory's applicability in research with Aboriginal peoples.
• Exploration of an Indigenous worldview and its foundational principles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To interrogate the utility of postcolonial theory in research with Aboriginal peoples.
• To debate the strengths and weaknesses of critical social theory alongside an Indigenous worldview.
• To identify lessons for an Indigenous research paradigm and the benefits of Indigenous knowledge systems.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of theoretical approaches in Indigenous research.
• Comparative examination of postcolonial, critical social theory, and Indigenous worldviews.
• Reflective account of a researcher's journey in preparing for CBPR.

Main Results:

• Postcolonial theory presents limitations when applied to research with Aboriginal peoples.
• Critical social theory has both strengths and weaknesses when viewed through an Indigenous worldview.
• An Indigenous research paradigm, grounded in Indigenous knowledge systems, offers significant benefits.

Conclusions:

• An Indigenous research paradigm is crucial for ethical and effective research with Indigenous communities.
• Prioritizing Indigenous knowledge systems enhances the validity and impact of research.
• Researchers must critically evaluate theoretical frameworks to align with Indigenous worldviews.