Reflecting on research at the interface of knowledge and the importance of decolonising transformational unlearning for non-Indigenous researchers

Abstract

ABSTRACT Decolonising methodology requires that researchers engage in a process of learning and unlearning. This research on the inconsistent recognition of Indigenous rights and social determinants of Indigenous health in Australian policy implementation was positioned at the interface of knowledge systems and drew on a weaving metaphor to guide reflection on learning and unlearning. The aim of this paper is to share a reflection on this research methodology from a non-Indigenous standpoint. Reflexivity, deep listening, peer mentoring and supervision are identified as essential components of decolonising methodology. Through the process of weaving, both practically and philosophically, the significance of transformational unlearning is discussed. This reflection is offered as an example to other non-Indigenous researchers who are open to the challenge of decolonising research at the interface of knowledge.