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Inquire: Research Protocols (Sub-Module 3 of 3 of Inquire Module)
Research protocols are codes of conduct to ensure that research practices and methodology used when conducting research relating to Indigenous population is done ethically and responsibly.
Resources: Research Protocols
Research Protocols
Research protocols are code of conducts to ensure that research practices and methodology used when conducting research relating to Indigenous population is done ethically and responsibly. Given the daunting history of the treatment of Indigenous peoples, and in particular, the irresponsible and unethical research practices that were conducted by colonizers in Canada, it is extremely important to ensure that research is done with the utmost respect, with full consent, and highest ethical standards. Additionally, when it comes to conducting research relating to the Indigenous population, especially by those who are non-indigenous, for the researcher to be keenly aware of and make every effort to eliminate personal, professional, and institutional biases, prejudices, and ignorance.
Tips for conducting research respectfully & responsibly
- Protecting Indigenous knowledge is tied directly to Indigenous Peoples' beliefs of respect and protection of information for future generations.
- It’s about stopping the appropriation of sacred knowledge, culture, or art for financial gain that doesn’t benefit Indigenous communities.
- It’s about learning how Indigenous People view their knowledge and respecting their views and protocols.
- It’s important to know the difference between appropriation and appreciation.
- Indigenous Nations do not see ownership as an individual right, but rather a communal responsibility.
- Indigenous forms of ownership include communally owned property, familial-owned property, or properties held by the nation.
- Stories like dances and songs are mostly owned. Listening to a story or tale does not provide a person with the privilege of retelling that story. If you are buying an Indigenous gift or craft, take the time to make sure that it’s authentic.
- Responsible collaborations involve: consent, shared control, acknowledgement, respect, and reciprocity.
Indigenous Research Methodologies
When conducting original research which involves Indigenous peoples, it is important to consider research methodologies. According to Shawn Wilson, an Indigenous research methodology revolves around relational accountability or "answering to all your relations." As a researcher, one has to focus on being accountable to the individual or communities which your research refers to. Research becomes more than just "gaining knowledge in some abstract pursuit' but learning about and fulfilling your obligations to the peoples involved in your research. Wilson also recommends evaluating research methods which includes considering if it will help build respectful relationships with the research participants. Similarly, certain methodologies are a better fit, such as storytelling and narratives (What is an Indigenous Research Methodology?).
Source: What is an Indigenous Research Methodology? (Wilson)
Learn more
- Read: Research Involving the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples of Canada (Government of Canada)
- Read: Research, Ethnic Fraud, and the Academy: A Protocol for Working with Indigenous Communities and Peoples (Yellowhead Institute)
- Explore: Indigenous Research Methodology Examples (UBC)
Video: Decolonizing Methodologies: Can relational research be a basis for renewed relationships?
Dr. Shawn Wilson and Dr. Monica Mulrennan describe the ways in which research can provide valuable opportunities to renew relationships by creating spaces for meaningful encounters and engagements and offer suggestions on how we can ensure that research outcomes benefit the community.
Citing Oral Communication with Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers
The following are adapted from More Than Personal Communication: Templates for Citing Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers by Lorisia MacLeod (CC BY), and the NorQuest College Library APA 7th Edition Guide (CC BY-NC).
APA
| Reference List Citation |
Format Last name, First initial. Nation/Community. Treaty Territory if applicable. Where they live if applicable. Topic/subject of communication if applicable. personal communication. Month Date, Year. Example Cardinal, D. Goodfish Lake Cree Nation. Treaty 6. Lives in Edmonton. Oral teaching. personal communication. April 4, 2004. |
| In-text Citation |
Format (Last name, date) Example (Cardinal, 2004) |
MLA
| Works Cited List Citation |
Format Last name, First name. Nation/Community. Treaty Territory if applicable. City/Community they live in if applicable. Topic/subject of communication if applicable. Date Month Year. Example Cardinal, Delores. Goodfish Lake Cree Nation. Treaty 6. Lives in Edmonton. Oral teaching. 4 April 2004. |
| In-text Citation |
Format (Last name) Example (Cardinal) |
Learn more
- Read: More Than Personal Communication: Templates For Citing Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers (KULA: Knowledge Creation, Dissemination, and Preservation Studies)
- Listen: The politics of citation: Is the peer review process biased against Indigenous academics? (Unreserved / CBC)
Finding Sources with Indigenous Perspectives
Search Tips
Here are some search tips which may help when you're searching for sources related to Indigenous topics, perspectives, and issues:
- Keep in mind that terminology changes over time. Consider using search operators (AND, OR, NOT) to yield the best results. For example, you can search: Indigenous OR First Nations OR Aboriginal OR Native.
- There are Indigenous peoples all over the world. If you are looking for sources related to Indigenous Peoples in Canada you may want to include the word "Canada" as part of your search, or check out advance search features.
- When you are looking at article abstracts, take note of the subject terms. These could give you hints on search terms, keywords, or other topic combinations you might want to try searching.
- Unsure what terminology to start with? Review this list from the Library and Archives of Canada.
- Don’t skip over the works cited or reference page on articles. Read works written by the authors that were referenced in a really great paper. You might just discover your new favourite author.
- Need a refresher on conducting research? Check out The Learning Portal's How to Research or your college library for more information.
Explore Indigenous Resources at Your College
Select an Ontario college to view a list of library guides, resources, and programs