Using Talanoa as a Research Method can Facilitate Collaborative Engagement and Understanding between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Communities

Abstract

Inclusion of indigenous knowledge and voices is paramount if societal transformations relative to climate change are to be fully and appropriately considered. However, much of the research in this area still uses Western-based research methodologies rather than methodologies driven by the local Indigenous communities. Therefore, it is highly likely that large numbers of affected communities remain excluded from global discussions and decisions around climate change solutions and policy. This article presents talanoa, a qualitative culturally centred research methodology used in many Pacific Island countries. As non-Indigenous researchers, we present our exploration of Indigenous research methods and talanoa experiences in a framework that confirms the importance of relationships when conducting research with Indigenous communities. We also propose that talanoa is a crucial component for qualitative research as it can help facilitate knowledge exchange and understanding among Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

The role of Vanua in climate-related voluntary immobility in Fiji

“…Talanoa is an inclusive and transparent face-to-face dialogue or exchange of ideas in a culturally appropriate way of seeking transformative solutions on a topic of local significance that is used in Pacific cultures in everyday interactions. Many Pacific Island countries, including Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, and Tokelau, are familiar with the idea of Talanoa, which has its roots in oral traditions (Feetham et al, 2022). Integrating Indigenous research methods and knowledge can give communities a stronger stake in knowledge generation, including in climate risk and adaptation (Nabobo-Baba, 2006;Vaioleti, 2013).…”

“…These Talanoa sessions also helped to identify people within the community who would be valuable to talk to individually (Bloor et al, 2001). The communal lifestyle and culture of Fijian are centered on Talanoa, which is compatible with their worldviews and attitudes (Feetham et al, 2022). Talanoa enabled an environment of storytelling, which in turn encouraged others to remember and describe their stories as well.…”

Dethroning the Planetary Perspective: Dealing with Actually-Occurring Transformations Using Dialogical Sense-Making and Critical Phenomenology

“…Methodologically, sense-making analyses in the context of Pacific Island States would need to be attentive to the dialogical practices that are relevant to the communities that co-produce the research. For instance, this could mean applying a Talanoa-inspired conversational methodology (Feetham et al, 2022;Vaioleti, 2006) rather than standard interviews or focus groups. In the study exemplified in Box 1, after consultation with Fijian team members the interviews were conducted to better accord with the dialogical character of Talanoa principles.…”