Missing in Action: Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Evaluation of Comprehensive Community Initiatives

  • Judy Gillespie University of British Columbia School of Social Work
  • Jason First Nations University of Canada
  • Shelaine
  • Tanya
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3138/cjpe.69099
Keywords: child welfare, social change, community development, multisector collaboration, aboriginal

Abstract

Comprehensive community initiatives (CCIs) coordinate social and structural change across multiple community sectors and represent promising approaches to complex social problems. Nowhere is this more relevant than for Indigenous children and families. However, strategies to evaluate initiatives to enhance Indigenous well-being must be meaningful to Indigenous communities. A review of literature regarding evaluation of CCIs identified various principles, case studies, methodologies, and methods grounded in Western ways of knowing and approaches to research. Research that engages with Indigenous led comprehensive community initiatives is needed to enhance evaluation practices for CCIs that enables resurgence of Indigenous traditions and worldviews. 

Author Biographies

Judy Gillespie, University of British Columbia School of Social Work

 Dr. Gillespie is an Associate Professor with the School of Social Work at the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus in Kelowna, BC.

Jason, First Nations University of Canada

Dr. Albert is an Assistant Professor with the School of Indigenous Social Work at First Nations University of Canada, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

Shelaine

Shelaine completed her Master of Social Work degree at the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus. She is currently a clinical social worker with Island Health in Victoria, BC.

Tanya

Tanya completed a Master of Social Work degree at the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus. She currently lives and works in Kelowna, BC.

Published
2020-11-10
Issue
Vol. 35 No. 2 (2020): Fall 2020 / Automne 2020
Section
Articles- English

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