Decolonising research methodologies : lessons from a qualitative research project, Cape Town, South Africa
Date
2017
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Taylor & Francis Open
Abstract
Background: It is becoming increasingly important for researchers to critically reflect on
approaches that can have a positive impact on the health outcomes of indigenous people.
Such issues are of great importance and perhaps of special relevance to researchers in the
Global South, and to the African context in which we work.
Objective:To share some lessons learned from our fieldwork to contribute to current knowledge
and conversations on decolonising research process.
Methods: We used an African lens to critically reflect upon some issues raised from individual
interviews and focus group discussions with our participants which we deem to be important
for consideration in a decolonising research process.
Results: The major issues that we raise are about important structures such as power, trust,
cultural competence, respectful and legitimate research practice and recognition of individual
and communities’ health assets in a decolonising research process.
Conclusions: Our paper argues for alternative approaches which are culturally appropriate
for health research and for improved health outcomes of marginalised groups. In addition, we
argue that participatory and transformative research methods which recognises individual
and communities’ assets are needed. We hope that the lessons that we share in this paper
can contribute towards a respectful and good research practice among the marginalised
population groups in our context.
Description
CITATION: Keikelame, M. J. & Swartz, L. 2017. Decolonising research methodologies : lessons from a qualitative research project, Cape Town, South Africa. Global Health Action, 12(1):1561175, doi:10.1080/16549716.2018.1561175.
Publication of this article was funded by the Stellenbosch University Open Access Fund.
Publication of this article was funded by the Stellenbosch University Open Access Fund.
Keywords
Indigenous peoples -- Africa -- Health and hygiene, Decolonization, Psychology -- Methodology, Psychology -- Research, Qualitative research, Marginality, social -- Africa
Citation
Keikelame, M. J. & Swartz, L. 2017. Decolonising research methodologies : lessons from a qualitative research project, Cape Town, South Africa. Global Health Action, 12(1):1561175, doi:10.1080/16549716.2018.1561175