Since indigenous peoples have long been exploited by academics, it is becoming more necessary to conduct studies in a way that includes them and is not based on colonial assumptions. An increasing number of indigenous groups and researchers have expressed their dissatisfaction with “research as usual” and highlighted the need for real collaborations, especially the decolonization of research. Since more Indigenous researchers rediscover their traditional ways of being and producing knowledge, it becomes clear to non-Indigenous researchers that those diverse realities matter more than ever before. Indigenous research is based on the unique worldviews of specific regions and ethnic groups. Research on indigenous people, communities, and countries is helpful if it has a positive impact. It is critical to consider ethical considerations while researching an indigenous setting. Since colonization has traditionally excluded people of color, women and the elderly must be included in this process.
“Indigenous” in the framework of Western civilization is feasible, but not in the context of colonial civilization. An indigenous worldview influences assumptions regarding what defines reality, knowledge and values in research. Relationship-building with residents, stakeholders, and collaborators is crucial for indigenous research—respect for both living and nonliving organisms on the planet. Giving back to the community and refusing to be influenced by prevailing views that keep people in the dark are all responsibilities of the researcher. The importance of spirituality and morals cannot be overstated. When doing research, it is critical to show respect for the community (dissemination) (Brayboy et al., 2012). To reflect is to examine one’s perspective and speculate about how others may perceive things. Various methods, such as a relational ontology, are used in an indigenous paradigm to examine the relationships between people and other living and nonliving entities.
References
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Brayboy, B. M., Gough, H. R., Leonard, B., Roehl, R. F., & Solyom, J. A. (2012). Reclaiming scholarship: Critical Indigenous research methodologies. Qualitative research: An introduction to methods and designs, 423-450.
Chen, P. G., Diaz, N., Lucas, G., & Rosenthal, M. S. (2010). Dissemination of results in community-based participatory research. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 39(4), 372–378. Web.
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