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Towards an engaged anthropology: Advancing methodological approaches to indigenous knowledge research and community well-being

Dr Serena Heckler and Professor Paul Sillitoe
Department of Anthropology, University of Durham
£146,578 over 3 years

Dr Heckler and Professor Sillitoe will carry out research into the indigenous knowledge of the Shuar of Ecuador in a manner that aims to be useful and beneficial to these people, as directly informed by their aspirations. The research will be conducted in collaboration with the newly formed indigenous university in Quito, the Intercultural University of Indigenous Nations and People's of Ecuador-Amawtay Wasi. While eliciting and documenting diverse Shar indigenous knowledge narratives and praxis, they seek to advance a methodological toolkit for an engaged anthropology using methods adapted form indigenous knowledge research. The partnership will enable them to draw on their diverse training and geographical experience to develop and disseminate new participatory methods related to indigenous knowledge research. Dr Heckler trained as a plant biologist; and has a PhD in ethnobiology. She will undertake training in qualitative research methods, and acquire knowledge of theoretical development in social anthropology.

Last Updated Thu, 17 July 2008