What are Indigenous research methodologies, and how do they unfold? Indigenous methodologies flow from tribal knowledge, and while they are allied with several western qualitative approaches, they remain distinct. These are the focal considerations of Margaret Kovach's study,which offers guidance to those conducting research in the academy using Indigenous methodologies. Kovach includes topics such as Indigenous epistemologies, decolonizing theory, story as method, situating self and culture, Indigenous methods, protocol, meaning-making, and ethics. In exploring these elements, the book interweaves perspectives from six Indigenous researchers who share their stories, and also includes excerpts from the author's own journey into Indigenous methodologies. Indigenous Methodologies is an innovative and important contribution to the emergent discourse on Indigenous research approaches and will be of use to graduate students, professors, and community-based researchers of all backgrounds - both within the academy and beyond.
This book is great for those writing grant, fellowship, and dissertation proposals. It clarifies the difference between Indigenous methodologies and Indigenous methods. With proposals in mind (especially the methods and methodologies sections), it offers clarifications and definitions of some Indigenous methods that can be referenced. These Indigenous methods and methodologies can then be contextualized via our specific tribal methods and methodologies.
This book is an absolute essential for anyone engaging with not only Indigenous research, but for research in general. Kovach’s newest edition of this book is poignant in the current political climate, and will continue to inspire generations of Indigenous and non-Indigenous scholars alike.
This is an amazing piece of literature for folks exploring Indigenity within academia or pursuing research that aims to be inclusive and accessible within Canadian culture. I truly appreciated the interwoven stories and reflections and the advice of the author on how to share a similar narrative style within academic work. I consider this to be a tool of utmost value for folks pursuing research, especially within the realms of experiences and realities of Indigenous peoples.
Clearly explained, with plenty of personal anecdotes and stories to put the material into context, Kovach provides a comprehensive introduction to Indigenous Methodologies, starting from the beginning with story, and ending with decolonizing the academy. Kovach frames the discussion in such a way, that the logical next step after reading is to consider how to incorporate decolonizing tribal methodologies in an Indigenous research context.
An immensely thoughtful readable, and useful book for those of us seeking ways to conduct research that is congruent with Indigenous thought and heritage. I highly recommend this book.
This is one I had to read for my theories class. It was interesting to learn about Indigenous theories and methodologies. It left me with a lot of questions and thoughts. I now want to talk to my Indigenous friends and ask about their experiences. This class is pushing me to see beyond my bubble of society, and I’m enjoying what I am learning.
This volume is a must read for anyone involved with Indigenous research, and it would not hurt others to approach it as well. I will definitely be revisiting it because there is just too much to digest in a single, spread out reading.
a bit dense and jargony at times, but extremely well-researched and informative. the interviews with indigenous scholars at the ends of chapters were particularly heartwarming and insightful. the epistemologies kovach describes in this text offer a strong framework for anyone that hopes to practice relationality and reflexivity in their research.