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Decolonising research approaches towards non-extractive research

Paul Agu Igwe (Lincoln International Business School, University of Lincoln – Brayford Campus, Lincoln, UK)
Nnamdi O. Madichie (School of Business, Bloomsbury Institute London, London, UK and Centre for Economic Governance and Leadership, University of Kigali, Rwanda)
David Gamariel Rugara (Lincoln International Business School, University of Lincoln – Brayford Campus, Lincoln, UK)

Qualitative Market Research

ISSN: 1352-2752

Article publication date: 18 July 2022

Issue publication date: 23 August 2022

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Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to reflect on the extent to which research approaches need to be deconstructed and re-imagined towards developing inclusive knowledge and non-extractive research approaches from a Global South perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceptually, integrating the methodological logic and strategy of community-based participatory research (CBPR) and a postcolonial paradigm of decolonising research, this study proposes a research process that engages cultural diversity and an inclusive environment. CBPR approach enables involving, informing and consulting Indigenous communities in espousing theoretical approaches and giving voice to marginalised groups.

Findings

This study answers pertinent questions on what “decolonising” means and how to decolonise research by developing a model of culturally inclusive research approaches. This study ultimately posits that colonialism dominates research and limits knowledge transmission among Indigenous research ideologies.

Research limitations/implications

In recent years, the world has witnessed major socio-political protests that challenges systemic racism and the role of education and institutions in perpetuating racial inequality. This study advocates that researchers consider integrating communities in the designing, conducting, gathering of data, analysing, interpreting and reporting research.

Practical implications

This study advocates knowledge creation through research that considers integrating the voices of Indigenous communities in the design, analysis, interpretation and reporting of research protocols.

Originality/value

In the light of anticolonial thought, decolonising research approaches provides a means for a radical change in research ethics protocol. A model of culturally inclusive research approach was developed, using the framework of CBPR, decolonising the research approaches comprising 6 Rs (respect, relevance, reciprocity, responsibility, relationships and relationality).

Keywords

Acknowledgements

Disclosure statement: This is no financial interest or benefit that has arisen from this research and no conflict of interest.

Third-party material: No third-party material that requires permission has been used.

Citation

Igwe, P.A., Madichie, N.O. and Rugara, D.G. (2022), "Decolonising research approaches towards non-extractive research", Qualitative Market Research, Vol. 25 No. 4, pp. 453-468. https://doi.org/10.1108/QMR-11-2021-0135

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2022, Emerald Publishing Limited

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