Enhancement of scoping review methodology to reflect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being and doing

Abstract

Objective: This paper argues for the enhancement of scoping review methods to incorporate Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing for more effective understandings of evidence of importance to Indigenous populations.

Methods: Scoping review methodology typically aims to understand existing evidence and support translation of evidence into practice. Levac and colleagues (2010) scoping review methodology stages: 1) Identify the research question; 2) Identify relevant studies; 3) Study selection; 4) Charting the data; 5) Collating, summarising, and reporting results; and 6) Consultation were considered from the perspective of Indigenous knowledges and adapted accordingly.

Results: An enhanced method better aligns with Indigenous methodologies which are based on relationality, collaboration, partnership, reciprocity, and benefit. Consultation was redefined in this enhancement as partnership and integrated throughout scoping review stages, which are underpinned by key methodological principles.

Conclusions: Enhancement of scoping review stages with Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing has the potential to strengthen the utility of scoping review methods to better meet the needs of and ensure relevance for Indigenous populations.

Implications for public health: These enhancements can increase the potential for knowledge translation and implementation of culturally relevant evidence-based approaches into practice for Indigenous populations and for other populations who experience health inequities.

Keywords: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge; Indigenous knowledge; Participatory; knowledge translation; methodological framework; scoping review.