Integrating Western and Native Research Methods: A Qualitative Exploration of Students’ Experiences and Elders’ Wisdom

Abstract

Native methodology in social science research encompasses an “agenda based on Indigenous epistemology” wherein reciprocal relationships between investigators and community members are essential (Kurtz, 2013, p. 222). However, Western scholars have often misrepresented Native perspectives. This occurs mainly due to power imbalances created between researchers and participants. In the study presented here, the graduate student researcher explored students’/new professionals’ experiences and community Elders’ advice regarding research with (not on) Native communities. Ten student participants and three community Elders were interviewed. Participants unanimously emphasized processes of trust-building with Native communities. Said processes include strategies such as gaining insights about personal biases, seeking guidance from Elders and other experienced personnel, educating oneself about Native history, and functioning as a humble learner. Learning about and enacting these behaviors and strategies can facilitate authentic collaborations in knowledge-creation. Learned lessons and useful resources shared by study participants, too, are informative toward creating guidelines for current and future trainers in research methods. These guidelines can be passed onto new students and professionals before they begin their work with Native communities.