The Research Process and Indigenous Epistemologies

This chapter discusses the research process and indigenous epistemologies, specifically, what is involved in conducting research using indigenous epistemology. The dictionary definition of epistemology is that it is a philosophical theory of knowledge that studies the nature and what constitutes knowledge. In this chapter, indigenous epistemology is contrasted with other epistemologies, as an epistemology that seeks to advance the voices of “indigenous” people, or the marginalized. The contention is that dominant epistemologies have downplayed the role and importance of indigenous knowledge in research. Such epistemologies have not given voice to the researched communities yet purport to have an understanding of their social worlds. This chapter therefore places indigenous epistemology at the fore for carrying out research with rather than on communities and using indigenous knowledge to theorize research and inform the theories and constructs used in the conduct of research.