Academics as Citizens—Collaborative Applied Interdisciplinary Research in the Service of Communities

Abstract

ABSTRACT The article uses two case studies from native Denke Aboriginal communities in the Canadian boreal forest and the Alaskan Arctic, to argue that university-community partnerships are essential to applied interdisciplinary research and community development. It analyzes development research in those communities, with particular reference to human ecology and the impact of chemical pollutants, as well as the empowerment of women. Employing foundational concepts of community participation and indigenous knowledge, it outlines innovative outcomes arising from collaborative research and concludes with key lessons for universities. It suggests that universities be socially responsible, institutional citizens by participating in development initiatives; provide an enabling environment for engagement with communities; and integrate research and teaching in a way that emphasizes community benefit as the essential objective. The article also argues for a redefinition of merit criteria to reward publications that may not fit an academic genre but are useful for communities and policy makers. Finally, it emphasizes support for co-production of knowledge with indigenous communities and an acknowledgement of their proprietary rights over such knowledge.