Knowledge dialogues

‘Knowledge dialogues’ between indigenous partners, academics and other actors in the society is an ongoing mutual learning process. It aims to foster the social construction of knowledge through diverse types of exchange. Ideas, feelings, images, beliefs, concepts, strategies, stories, expectations and experiences are the substrate for creating newer, richer ways of looking at regional scale issues such as those convened by CICADA: co-management regimes, customary tenures, violence, criminalization and dispute resolution, and local livelihoods and food sovereignty. Knowledge dialogues is a creative, equitable way in which different cultures can find common grounds for understanding problems that affect both indigenous and western societies. Therefore a central goal for the experiences evolved during the participatory video and photo voice research theme is to craft the means for emerging synergies between different knowledges and ontologies.

Participatory Action Research

Participatory Action Research (PAR) is based on reflection, data collection, and action to transform and to be transformed. It helps to question the origin of knowledge and to which extent it can represent the interests of the powerful and serve to reinforce their positions in society. In PAR, experience is at the centre of ‘knowing’, and that experiential learning can lead to legitimate forms of knowledge that can influence practical actions. It also enables researchers to work collaboratively with local communities in ways that can lead to action for change.

Community researchers – ‘campesino a campesino’

Campesino a campesino’ is a communication and educational method widely used in Latin America, lead by people as the central actors of their own ‘buen vivir’ and development. Campesino researchers and trainers visit and/or meet with other campesinos with the purpose to impart their knowledge, experiences, preoccupations and expectations over a theme of common concern. A community researcher is a member from a local indigenous community that has developed skills other than the ones acquired from their ancestors and rural life activities. Usually these skills are learned through knowledge dialogues with academics and researchers that share with them methodologies and tools for organizing, keeping track of, and monitoring socio-ecological dynamics. These tools can vary greatly depending on the identified needs and priorities to improve their livelihoods. Community researchers can learn how to use computers, GPS, and other technologies useful for strengthening their autonomy and their ability to communicate and take control of their resources and territories.