Approaching Indigenous theoretical frameworks and quantitative research methods to improve Indigenous data

Abstract

This paper reflects on the challenges faced by researchers in utilizing institutional and national datasets to study Indigenous educational outcomes, proposing a transformative approach through Indigenous theoretical frameworks and quantitative research methods. The intention of the following is to provide quasi-completed and proposed studies within Indigenous communities to illustrate the needs and principles we need to take while collecting data in Indigenous populations. We present three examples examining 1. How researchers might integrate an Indigenous theoretical framework, Quechan warrior tradition (Kwanamii), with critical quantitative methods to measure postsecondary outcomes. 2. The collaboration of Native American non-profits to create some of the best data on Native American college students to date. And 3. to addresses the need for critical quantitative approaches in international contexts, using the example of Colombia and the SABER 11 test dataset, to highlight the importance of disaggregated data for meaningful analysis. We conclude with a call to develop culturally responsive research informed by Indigenous knowledge, aiming to catalyze transformative change in educational systems and practices for the benefit of Indigenous communities.