An example of a partnership between university-based researchers and First Nations communities is the First Nations Innovation (FNI) project at the University of New Brunswick. The FNI project focuses on ways to collaboratively conduct respectful and meaningful research with First Nations partners.
FNI’s research includes work on digital divides, broadband policies and regulations, Indigenous data and information management and capacity-building, to name a few areas of focus. The project conducts community-based research that is developed through ongoing discussions, negotiations and cooperation with participating First Nations.
The following material describing the FNI approach to collaborative research is adapted from a paper written about the project called “Co-creating community narratives: how researchers are engaging First Nation community members to co-write publications”. You can read the full paper here (Publication #43).
FNI is the outcome of years of collaboration between university-based researchers and First Nations organizations. Several individuals involved in the project began collaborating in the early 2000s, in projects like Community Informatics Research and Practice in Canada (CRACIN) and Research on ICT with Aboriginal Communities (RICTA). Since June 2006, participants have met every month during multi-site videoconferences, where they discuss the direction and focus of their collaborative research.
To ensure this work meets the needs of all partners, the FNI project participants follow a set of protocols. Research commences with a letter to the leadership of involved communities, and work does not begin until the researchers receive a formal invitation to collaborate from local leadership. Once this relationship is established, university researchers work closely with community-based researchers. Locals are involved in research in a variety of ways: planning visits, setting up interviews, helping develop interview guides and questions, co-authoring articles, and making videos or websites.
Throughout these activities, the FNI process supports community priorities, such as use of technology for community development and community services. Research outcomes are discussed and interpreted by both community members and university-based researchers. All papers generated through this work are the outcome of an open and holistic approach to writing. Community members and local leadership contribute ideas through written text, quotes, and photographs. Every paper includes at least one community member.
- Read the FNI project’s publication policy
While the FNI project has generated lots of exciting research, the partners do face challenges in their work. It is difficult to bridge the geographic distances spanning organizations and communities. Researchers are exploring innovative ways to use information and communication technologies like phone, email, and videoconference to connect with one another. While this approach is effective in areas that benefit from connectivity, it is challenging in communities where technology is less stable, or adequate equipment and/or bandwidth is not yet in place.
Collaborating across diverse cultures is also a challenge. Researchers and community members participate in activities like hunting trips, video festivals and shared meals. These activities are an important part of the research process. They help build relationships and allow everyone involved to learn about one another’s cultures. Think back to earlier readings and discussion about the decolonization process. These kinds of activities are part of that work, and help ensure that projects are undertaken in a equal and participatory manner.
Communities also consist of many diverse individuals, including youth, middle-aged professionals, and Elders. There is also a need to engage a broad section of the community in research projects to ensure as many voices are heard as possible.
One example of a FNI project is a community website showcasing the history of technology use in Fort Severn First Nation. Fort Severn is a small remote community that receives connectivity services via satellite, through the non-profit Northern Indigenous Community Satellite Network. Below, you can watch a short video introducing the First Severn Technology Showcase. You can also watch another video, where Isaiah Koostachin, a high school student from Fort Severn, goes out on the land with the Canadian Rangers to interview them about technology. In the video, the Rangers talk about what they like best about technology, how they use it and what challenges they face.