Throughout the power and inequity research panel, I noticed they recommended us to grow a “thicker skin.” While this is excellent advice, I’m dissatisfied. Within earlier lectures, many guest lectures were unable to give a satisfactory or specific answer as to how they navigate their personal lives with sensitive research.
I can’t help but think about it during this pandemic when personal power over our own mental and physical health is insecure. Yes toughen up, but also, be sensitive.
As researchers, we have almost totalitarian power over the data collection and the direction that the research process takes. We must be sensitive to the research participant’s needs. Traditionally this means maintaining anonymity, be unattached and remain unbiased. All of this is done under the name of respectability and impartiality of the research. This is a very western notation of collecting data and may not always be the most effective.
But I see a more multivocal manner of data collection on the rise. Specifically, with Patrick’s Thomsen’s use of Talanoa. One which tends to be more accepting and understanding. It respects the relationship formed by the researcher and research participant. In other words, it’s not so tough, and it begins to bridge the power imbalance between researcher and research participant.
