Writing from Somewhere: Reflections on Positioning in Research

Acknowledging the position from which one researches and writes is critical to the integrity of the research. This is true of all research, but more often discussed in relation to cross-cultural research, or research relating to Indigenous Knowledges and experiences. This paper outlines the author’s reflections on her position in her research. She has undertaken social science research in education focusing on enhancing the role of learning and teaching around Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australia in Australian primary schools. Her reflections include a series of cumulative, biographically meaningful epiphanic experiences, the impact of colonial education, and her understanding of her relatedness to Indigenous Knowledges and the disciplines of education and social science. The author also examines how these reflections have been integrated into the research design, process and practice.