Collaboration in Virtual Environments: Honouring the Métis Method of Visiting

Abstract

During COVID-19, many collaborative research teams and community partners pivoted to undertake their work in a virtual way. In this discussion, we capture the mechanics, logic, and situations under which virtual methods became relevant to applied interdisciplinary work. Using a shared voice, we chart the nuances of training and research through the redesign, the reimagining of research protocols, and the nuanced cultural gaps that exist between virtual connection and in-person visiting with community partners, Métis Knowledge Keepers, and experts. Through referencing our reflexive archive of experiences, emails, fieldnotes, and meeting minutes, we address how our attempt to simulate virtual informed consent has consequently provided insights into the value of co-creation and the importance of honouring visiting as a Métis method in virtual environments.