Entering the field of research: a beginning Indigenous researcher's experience

Abstract

Entering the field of research can pose many dilemmas for beginning researchers. Learning the meaning of new terms; developing new knowledge and skills and applying all this to the practical situation can be a daunting experience. Working as an individual on your own project also adds to the pressure of acquiring skills one needs to become confident in achieving outcomes. Entering the field of research can be even more complex for beginning Indigenous researchers who may be faced with dealing with conflicting knowledge and values, as traditionally research has been very much in the non- Indigenous domain therefore reflecting such values and methodologies. This symposium paper examines the experiences of a beginning Indigenous researcher in identifying and addressing the issues involved.