What is braided science?

This is our working definition co-created by the Harvest Windows Project team.

Braided Science is an approach to understanding and interacting with the natural world weaving together Indigenous Knowledge (IK) and Institutional Science (IS), to create an alternative way of knowing. The goal is to build a new model, separate from IK and IS, that integrates the strengths of both these systems, allowing them to complement and influence each other, with the aim of creating more holistic and equitable processes and outcomes for scientific inquiry.

How does it work?

Incorporating equity among participants and in the structure of collaboration, creates a stronger foundation to bring together multiple lines of evidence to holistically address issues of environmental concern. Ensure that process, data, and decision makers in the work are braided; avoid being extractive; bring together Tribal partners, IS researchers, and collaborators to co-create new systems of collaboration and projects. The projects should center the priorities of IK holders equally with IS priorities. The process should overall be approached with humility and a willingness to let the collaboration evolve, change and take the amount of time needed for consent building and true interweaving.

Collaboration occurs in the field (left) and in the office (right).

What are the outcomes?

Braided science outcomes may break the molds of traditional IS and IK. Goals may be different for each project; consider diverse outcomes that are impactful for your group and associated communities.

Example outcomes include, (left) The tule boat public event at Alcatraz NP, (center) tule infographic, and (right) research presentations.

Things to consider when conducting braided science

Consider inherent biases in process and data types, when determining how best to combine ways of knowing. Address data sovereignty to determine if, how, and where data can be used and shared.