Philippine E-Journals

Doing Research with the Indigenous People: An Autoethnography from the Ground

Reynaldo O. Cuizon | Arnulfo B. Ramos

 

Abstract:

What are the experiences of the researchers in doing research with Indigenous People (IP)? How do such experiences influence their thoughts, values, and advocacies with IP aspirations? What prognosis can be derived from their experiences? To answer such queries, a qualitative research was conducted and thereby revealed that the study participants describe research with IP as an in depth investigative process which upholds relevance, rigor, artistry and ethical standards. It is undertaken through the use of diverse research methods like focus group discussion, survey, observation and in-depth interview, life stories or genealogy, three generation vertical test, document and photo analysis. It involves face-to-face encounters, demands trustworthiness and credibility, and advances moral decency. It enhances competence and boosts confidence not just in conducting ethnographic exploration but in pursuing the liberative education. Furthermore, the participants developed the value of sensitivity to IP rights and culture, the virtue of respect to privacy, anonymity and confidentiality, the enthusiasm to share research-based knowledge through forums, conferences, meetings, trainings, and publications, and the solidarity and camaraderie with the IPs immersion in their real life, discernment on their plight, and commitment in their struggle for their rights to ancestral domain and self-determination. Finally, for them, doing research with IP is noble. It is a call.