Indigenous Research Methodologies and Field Linguistics Training: a Crucial Inclusion

Note: This talk has not gone through a process of peer review, and findings should therefore be treated as preliminary and subject to change.

SOAS Linguistics webinars
Indigenous Research Methodologies and Field Linguistics Training: a Crucial Inclusion
27 October 2021

Adrienne Tsikewa (Zuni Pueblo)
University of California, Santa Barbara

Abstract: As the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (IDIL) quickly approaches, the field of linguistics has to consider how current praxis addresses the Decade’s goals of supporting, providing access to, and promoting Indigenous languages and how it strengthens the capacities of Indigenous language speakers and relevant Indigenous peoples’ organizations. One way this can be achieved is by incorporating Indigenous research methodologies into field linguistics training as it is heavily focused on endangered languages that are primarily spoken by Indigenous peoples. Indigenous research methodologies have been developed to assist scholars with implementing decolonial strategies into their research agendas (Kovach 2010, Chilisa 2012, Brayboy et al. 2011, Smith 2012). As linguistics is a discipline rooted in colonization, there is a need to critically examine the methodological approaches deemed inherent to the field and reimagine how they can be transformed for broader impacts. This talk highlights how the inclusion of Indigenous research methodologies into linguistics coursework is not only essential preparation for those wanting to work with Indigenous speakers and communities but also for the retention of Indigenous students.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xk8O6uV1uE4