A research ethic for studying Maori and iwi provider success

Kaupapa Maori is an emancipatory theory that has grown up alongside the theories of other groups who have sought a better deal from mainstream society; for example, feminist, African-American and worldwide indigenous theories. At a high level, these theories have commonalities and similar concerns, including the displacement of oppressive knowledges and a social change agenda. At a local level, Kaupapa Maori addresses Maori concerns in our own land. Kaupapa Maori research operates out of this philosophical base and is guided by practices that reflect a Maori 'code of conduct.' This paper explores how these practices were operationalized within the Maori and Iwi Provider Success research project. This project examined the practices of successful Maori and Iwi (tribal) providers of services and/or programs across six sectors (housing, social services, education, employment and training, justice, health) and five regions in Aotearoa New Zealand (Taitokerau, Tamaki Makaurau, Taranaki, Tairawhiti and Te Waipounamu). The role of the researchers was to listen to and give voice to the kaupapa, aspirations and day-to-day realities of these providers. Critically reflecting on the Kaupapa Maori research practices for achieving this helps us to make the subconscious become conscious. The lessons we learn from doing so can then be added to the pool of knowledge about how research with Maori might be respectfully conducted. Adapted from the source document.