Good Essay About Reflective Research Journal

Introduction

The current research methodologies have been founded and are greatly influenced by the dominant cultures such as the western culture. As such, the research designs, methodologies, conceptual framework and findings are tailored to meet the needs of the mainstream cultures at the expense of the oppressed and colonized groups. Indigenous research is a systematic approach that seeks to increase knowledge based on the philosophies, culture and history of the marginalized, oppresses and colonized groups. The main purpose of indigenous research is to apply the sought information in coming up with problem solving skills that are tailored to needs of the aforementioned groups.
The book “Research is Ceremony. Indigenous Research Methods” by Wilson Shawn (2008) seeks to examine the process and importance of indigenous research in developing relationships and coming up with solutions to meet the needs of non-popular communities. According to Shawn, the current research techniques are based on the ideologies, culture and history of the popular groups such as the Euro-Western group. Thus, they are not tailored to meet the needs of non-popular communities. In addition, the current research methodologies tend to ignore the views of the non-popular groups. Hence, the popular groups impose their views, beliefs and ideologies on the non-popular groups. Furthermore, the current principles of research are guided by the norms and heritage of the dominant groups such as the colonizers hence do not offer relevant knowledge and solution to the problems of the non-dominant groups. For instance, when carrying out research to establish the solutions to poverty in the developing countries most of the researchers use Euro-Western research methods that do not offer adequate solutions to the existing problems.
As such, the current research methodologies should be restructured to meet the needs of the non-dormant groups by including their ideologies, views, culture, and beliefs. For example, the data collection methods, research design and methodologies should be tailored according to the needs of every community. Researchers should encourage active participation by indigenous communities when carrying out community-based research. This is important so as to effectively address the needs of the community members and maintain relationships and accountability.
Shawn points out that research is all about coming up with answers to unanswered questions in regard to various phenomena. Additionally, his argument is based on the standard of research that holds on to the principle of relational accountability. This simply means that research develops through relations we have with friends, family and the society at large. This explains that we owe explanation to those in relation to us about research undertaken. Introducing this aspect, it explains why research cannot be of viable importance if it does not make sense if it is outside the context of relations. Furthermore, he explains that one of the major differences between indigenous research methods and the western or conventional method is the relation aspect. He points out that research in the indigenous way is based on building relationships and not the norm of following set down rules.
In support of Wilson views, I would say that the relational aspect is also a tool of research but only based on the indigenous views of the world. We should find a way of not only undertaking a research in order of academic appraisal but with the view of involving indigenous society understand and be part of them. This is by devising ways of attaching them emotionally involving them and partnering with them while carrying out research. This commitment will help in motivating indigenous people from undertaking their own research work.
Therefore, the critical question we need to ask ourselves is whether appreciating and incorporating indigenous methods of research will improve the perspective in which we view research work based on perspectives of individual communities. In addition, how effective are indigenous methods of research suited in addressing the needs of indigenous communities.

References

Wilson, S. (2008). Research is ceremony: Indigenous research methods. FernwoodPub..