Yarning with remote Aboriginal communities about seeking consent for research, culturally respectful community engagement and genuine research partnerships

Abstract

If the invitation to research is not delivered in a way that is understood, or acknowledges that participants may come from a different world-view, it may affect participation rates, and research findings and research relationships with Indigenous communities. Reflections on the consent process and community engagement for research with Indigenous populations are rarely documented as shown in our systematic review.1 In response, The Picture Talk Project was initiated by leaders of remote Aboriginal communities of the Kimberley to have a ‘Yarn’ about the research process.2 Aboriginal leaders formed a partnership with researchers from Sydney and Darwin. Locally respected Aboriginal people were employed to work as Community Navigators and interpret language, provide cultural guidance and learn Western research approaches. Community leaders were interviewed (research topic yarning) and focus groups (collaborative yarns) were held with Aboriginal community members comprising of parents or carers about their understanding of research, the consent process and their preference of how communities should be engaged and how information should be presented.2 Focus group participants were also given the option to draw pictures on paper during the focus group in order to divert focus to a mutual activity.3,4 Transcripts are analysed using NVivo10 qualitative software and coded using inductive and deductive coding with grounded theory.5 Major Themes are synthesised and supporting quotes from participants were identified. Participants were from different age groups, both males and females and from main local language groups of the Fitzroy Valley, namely Bunuba, Gooniyandi, Walmajarri, Wangkatjungka and Nykina. Interview analysis reveals five main themes: Research – finding knowledge; Showing respect for Aboriginal people, working on country and being flexible with time; Working together with good communication; Reciprocity – learning two ways and Reaching consent. Themes emerging from the focus group data include: Research – your knowledge; Communication – ‘Milli Milli’ (written word) versus Pictures; Community Research Relationships – ‘Checking in’; and Future Directions: What to research next? Aboriginal communities want researchers to change their approach to community engagement.1 Specific feedback is given on how to communicate in a way that is embraced by remote Aboriginal communities leading to better recruitment rates and more meaningful research outcomes and forming relationships which embody respect for Aboriginal culture.