Indigenous research methods review: Where are we now and what work needs to be done

AIM: We report an analysis of the concept of Indigenous research methodology within the Western scientific community, to describe the evolution and discuss the future of Indigenous-centered research and its importance to Native American public health.

BACKGROUND: Indigenous scholars proposing Indigenous research methodology has only recently emerged as an alternative, modification, or integration to Western methodology since the early 1990’s. It is critical to have Indigenous scholars contribute to this growing body of discussion to close the intergenerational gap in knowledge.

METHODS: An Indigenous way of knowing framework was used to approach the concept of health and well-being (e.g., the medicine wheel). Databases were searched for articles, reviews, editorials, and grey literature addressing Indigenous research methods from 1990 and on, and key Indigenous scholars and elders were interviewed. Gaps and trends in research methodology were identified and discussion of place and well-being within this Indigenous framework is offered.

CONCLUSION: If Indigenous communities hold contemporary Indigenous scholarship as a sacred and important component to overall sovereignty and well-being, then current assessment is warranted where Indigenous scholarship is an integral component of the process. This relates directly to the efforts of improved Native American health and wellness. The utility of this concept for public health research and practice in Indigenous communities is vital, and will help build our future.