Integrating Indigenous Research Methods and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Possibilities and Pitfalls

This paper examines the possibilities and pitfalls of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Indigenous research methods. Although AI is rooted in Western scientific rationalism with dominant technologies, it has the potential to be integrated with Indigenous knowledge systems. AI algorithmic systems and tools can be usefully paired with Indigenous research methods to benefit both systems. Through incorporating Indigenous knowledge, AI can benefit from cultural sensitivity of local indigenous communities. When AI is combined with local indigenous research approaches, it can also foster methodological inclusivity, diversity of knowledge as well as decolonization of AI technologies. Similarly, Indigenous methods can leverage AI technologies to digitize and preserve indigenous data. AI technologies also allow indigenous communities and activists to achieve epistemic justice and data sovereignty. The paper uses existing case studies that attempt to weave these two systems in research. The potential challenges of integrating these two divergent systems are outlined. The paper concludes by discussing the implications of integrating AI and indigenous research methods on qualitative research especially in the Global South.