Abstract:
Insider and cross-cultural research dynamics are dominated by questions of power (and often powerlessness). Differential power relations are articulated from the point of setting research agendas right through to research design, research implementation and dissemination. Research for Māori requires research foundered on the principle of research that is transformative in intent. While Māori are likely to be best placed to do this research it is likely that there will be an ongoing need to work alongside non-Māori allied researchers. The issues of cross-cultural research then need to be addressed. The conundrum of interpreting difference across a cultural divide is one example of the challenges and opportunities that researchers and research participants may encounter. Ethical and cultural considerations, the quality of relationships, the political environment, status management, decision-making, research motivation and engagement are some of the issues that face this type of research. This article looks at the constraints and opportunities of reflective, problematised cross-cultural research endeavours.
