Research With Indigenous Cultures: A Case Study Analysis of Tongan Grandparents

Literature Review
Networking nonprobability sampling method
Individual semi-structured interviews
Focus Groups
Analysis was conducted through immersion in the data, coding, memo writing, and comparative analysis until redundancy

"In this study, in-depth interviews with grandparents and focus
groups with grandchildren were the data collection methods, and
transcription, translation, and content analysis were the primary
forms of data analysis. The interview methods were appropriate and
sensitive to the oral traditions of the culture. The qualitative analysis
is also culturally relevant because it provides an opportunity for immersion and identification of themes from the rich narratives of these
grandparents and grandchildren." (p. 232)

"the Pacific Islander model called Ho'okele was deemed appropriate in informing the design and implementation of this study… [it] provides a model of bridging generations and ecosystems that is relevant to Tongans." " (p. 233)

This study involved interviews with grandparents and focus groups with grandchildren to explore the role of grandparents within Tongan culture and the relationship between grandparents and grandchildren. Lessons learned from this study are intended for educating social work students, and to inform future work with Indigenous Pacific Islander communities. The article also describes the process and importance of conducting culturally respectful social work research.

Cultural protocols
Forward and back translations were conducted in order to maintain contextual meanings. (p. 232)
Data was collected in English and Tongan with acknowledgement of possible loss of meaning despite forward and back translations.

Lessons learned from this case used for educating social work students and informing faculty work with other Indigenous Pacific Islander cultures.

Individual and group interviews were tape- and hand-recorded.
Literature

Intergenerational knowledge transfer
Reports
Articles

"Social workers should be cognizant of the hierarchies in indigenous families and cultures, and consider the familial and cultural significance of an elder’s role and authority." P. 230

"Educators, researchers, and practitioners should consider the oratory traditions of a culture, the importance of location and language needs, and involve indigenous community people who offer essential cultural expertise for communication, consultation, and negotiation." (p. 230)

Social Work
Social Work Education