Conduct of Traditional Knowledge Research- A Reference Guide

The objective of this document is to provide background information and practical guidance for principal investigators (research directors) and other researchers planning to conduct Traditional Knowledge research on the Yukon North Slope (YNS). In reviewing past research in the ISR and other parts of Canada, the authors have observed that: (1) current research standards across northern Canada vary greatly from one project to the next; (2) a significant amount of the TK research does not meet minimal data quality standards; and, (3) TK research and studies are falling under increasing critical scrutiny, especially where documented TK is at odds with science-based knowledge.