Indigenous Health Research: Theoretical and Methodological Perspectives

Nurse researchers schooled in Euro-Western traditions are learning the importance of Indigenous knowledge systems and research methodologies. Two-eyed seeing is an example of how Indigenous knowledge systems can influence the conduct of research. Two-eyed seeing and the opening of ethical space for the co-creation of knowledge are in keeping with Aboriginal traditions and honour the blending of Aboriginal and Western understandings of moral governance. The authors explain how community-based participatory research and the principles of ownership, control, access, and possession help to integrate two-eyed seeing and ethical space in shaping nursing research to address health priorities with Aboriginal peoples. These concepts respect diverse Indigenous knowledge systems and methodologies, and, importantly, position them as central to Indigenous research. This stance is consistent with that of scholars who advocate for Indigenous research that supports the principles of respect, relevance, reciprocity, and responsibility.