Community Perceptions of Research
Many of the recommendations provided in this guide attempt to address Inuit
perceptions, aspirations, and concerns relating to scientific research. Inuit, like people
anywhere, have varied and conflicting views about the relevance and value of scientific
research. Many Inuit regard scientific research as a valuable tool to protect public wellbeing, generate wealth, and to advance knowledge (for the benefit of communities and
society at large). Researchers are recognized as experts who possess specialized skills and
knowledge and who can help provide the information and assessment needed by Inuit
for sound decision making and planning areas such as land use management, environmental assessment, mineral exploration, wildlife management, community health, infrastructure, etc. Research projects are also perceived as an important source of direct
employment and revenues, a source for local training and professional experience
(particularly for young people), and occasionally as a tool to support community advocacy and empowerment (e.g. providing scientific evidence to support community claims
in the national and international arenas). Across the Arctic, community members are increasingly seeking help from researchers to design and conduct their own studies that
address local questions and concerns. Research collaborations and partnerships between
Inuit and the scientific community are increasing. Inuit are by-and-large not opposed to
pure scientific research; however, they would like the opportunity to share their valuable
knowledge and to assist scientists in designing and conducting scientific studies (even
if the phenomena under investigation are not of immediate local relevance).
Despite the support for research, some Inuit have significant concerns about the
manner in which research is conducted and about the impacts of scientific activities on
their communities. Some of the pertinent community concerns and perceptions are summarized below:
❖ lack of input/consultation in identifying research needs and questions and in designing studies – Inuit often feel that scientists do not make
enough effort to consider Inuit knowledge and perspectives when framing
research questions, and designing studies. Inuit occasionally dismiss scientific
studies (especially those on harvested wildlife species) as unnecessary and
irrelevant where they believe the studies will provide knowledge that Inuit already possess. A common perception is that Inuit have the answers to many of
the questions scientists propose to investigate.
❖ lack of local involvement in the research process – Inuit sometimes feel
they are not adequately involved throughout the research process (e.g. project
design, data collection and analysis, and communication of results).
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N EGOTIATING R ESEARCH R ELATIONSHIPS W ITH I NUIT C OMMUNITIES