Not all concerns, or expectations, are relevant to every kind of research project.
However, it is important to be aware of some of these community perspectives as a background when considering, or developing, a northern research project.
To address the above concerns, Inuit communities are increasingly requiring that
researchers:
❖ inform, and consult directly with communities regarding proposed research
projects, well in advance of proposed start dates
❖ address a community concern or problem wherever possible
❖ request local feedback on field season timing, duration, and frequency
❖ promote field work during appropriate seasons, and long-term projects, wherever possible
❖ provide fair and adequate compensation for those providing information for a
research project, or hired to help with the research process
❖ provide timely reports on research results
❖ ensure due credit to the expertise published from research
❖ assign the same value, credibility and respect to local expertise (from recommended elders, or others) as that assigned to peer-reviewed scientific findings
❖ address data storage and ownership issues
❖ assist community members in pursuing and securing research funding, wherever possible
❖ sufficiently adapt research and institutional structures and processes so that all
the above are meaningfully addressed.
Advantages of Community Involvement in Research
Involving Inuit in research projects from the earliest stages, and throughout the
research process, is increasingly being recognized as beneficial. Furthermore, local
involvement in northern research often enhances the research value to the community.
Some advantages of Inuit involvement in northern research include:
– Local knowledge of environmental conditions and socio-economic realities
is an important source of insight for research. Please note that we have chosen
to use local knowledge or local expertise throughout this guide to refer to the
complex, detailed, dynamic, and experiential expertise held by many individuals
in northern communities. We have not used the term Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit
(Inuit knowledge, or traditional knowledge) because of the varied meanings it
has depending on the community and context.
– Informing and involving community members increases local support for, and
understanding of, the research project.
– Community consultation can identify local businesses and individuals who can
provide travel and accommodation support to research parties.
A G UIDE F OR R ESEARCHERS
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