An alternative view of mixed methods research: learning with and from indigenous ways of knowing

An alternative view of mixed methods research: learning with and from indigenous ways of knowing

One of the signature issues of this current punctuation point in the development of qualitative research and method (Toms, 2007) is that of the veracity, honesty and feasibility of mixed methods (see, for example, Archibald, 2008). Many of the commentators on mixed methods research presume the ingredients of the mixture are to be drawn from 'standard' qualitative and quantitative approaches. A more interesting question attaches to moving the tiles of the methodological kaleidoscope a fraction and considering what the debates might become were the addends of a mixed methods approach to research be imagined differently; viz. as indigenous and non-indigenous research paradigms or methods.
This paper looks to explore the contribution such a 'mixed methods' approach might make to the research capacities, repertoires and confidence of both indigenous and non-indigenous researchers. It reports on the design and conduct of a research development program that drew together Australian Aboriginal and white researchers where the aim was to share and mutually develop approaches to research. A specific example of the potential enhancement of spoken data gathering through interview and yarning, as a research method is explored.

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