Exploring methodological and ethical opportunities and challenges when researching with Indigenous youth on issues of identity and culture

Abstract

This article examines five interrelated methodological and ethical opportunities and challenges embedded within qualitative research projects that seek to partner with Indigenous young people, from different tribal communities. Drawing from two separate educational research studies conducted in Aotearoa New Zealand, the researchers identified these opportunities and challenges as: insiders and outsiders working to negotiate entry and gain consent; the need for a strengths-based approach; developing and maintaining respectful relationships; ensuring genuine ownership of the process; and authentic dissemination and benefits. Whilst similar in nature, they played out differently across the two research projects, highlighting the influence of context, culture, and community. The authors conclude with lessons learned, including the importance of researcher reflexivity, when conducting research with Indigenous youth and communities.

Keywords:

• Indigenous
• New Zealand
• youth
• identity
• methodological challenges

Note

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

1 A capital D is used to refer to individuals who identify as belonging to the Deaf community and Deaf culture. The use of the term D/deaf refers to the diversity of individuals who may identify as Deaf and/or hearing impaired.

2 QSM is an acronym for Queen’s Service Medal.

3 See for example, https://www.education.govt.nz/assets/Documents/School/Inclusive-education/KoWaiAuBookletTuturu.pdf and (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4Zk4WDJkhs)

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Susan C. Faircloth

Dr. Faircloth, the corresponding author for this manuscript, is an enrolled member of the Coharie Tribe. She is Professor and Director of the School of Education at Colorado State University in the United States.

Anne Hynds

Dr. Hynds, Pākehā / New Zealand European, is an independent researcher with ihi Research in New Zealand.

Melinda Webber

Dr. Webber, Ngāpuhi/Ngāti Whakaue, is an associate professor at the University of Auckland in New Zealand.