Decolonising research methodologies in East Arnhem Land
Decolonising research methodologies in East Arnhem Land Journal Article
Learning Communities: International Journal of Learning in Social Contexts [Special Issue: Decolonising Research Practices]
- Author(s): Tane, Moana Pera, Harwood, Matire
- Published: 2017
- Volume: 22
Abstract: ‘Talking About Smoking in East Arnhem Land: Denormalisation, Stigmatisation and Leadership’ was a research project that began in 2014 in East Arnhem Land, amongst the Yolŋu peoples. The study revealed a wealth of deeper meanings and beliefs about ŋarali’ or tobacco within the context of Yolŋu tradition, history and culture. In this reflective piece, the primary author describes a personal journey of learning through observations and discussions with Yolŋu informants who shared their values, expectations and obligations associated with ŋarali’, which over time, have become interwoven with Yolŋu ceremony.