The School of Indigenous Knowledges (SIK) is associated with the Aboriginal Culture, Equity and Education (ACEE) lab at Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre. ACEE conducts projects from a multidisciplinary research approach, including Indigenous methodologies, necessary for solving complex societal problems, and provide a platform for strengths-based Indigenous led research with local, national, and global applications.
Research
Higher Degree by Research (HDR) in the School of Indigenous Knowledges
General Information
Postgraduate research courses are essential for driving knowledge and innovation forward. They offer students the chance to delve deeply into original research, contributing significantly to both academic fields and society. These courses nurture critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, which are crucial for tackling complex challenges. The research conducted often leads to the expansion of fields of knowledge and advancements that can influence industry, shape policy, and benefit communities. Through our postgraduate research program, we support the next generation of scholars and leaders, equipping them with the expertise needed to drive positive change.
For Indigenous Research Students
Our Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program provides a platform for Indigenous scholars to engage in deep, original research that honours our traditional knowledge systems and/or contributes to positive outcomes for our contemporary communities. By undertaking HDR studies, students can explore and document the rich tapestry of Indigenous Knowledges, from the sciences to the arts, ensuring their preservation and continued relevance.
Our supportive HDR program fosters deep connection and the development of critical capacity, preparing our students to make meaningful discoveries and advancements that can positively impact our peoples and communities. Moreover, these programs support the development of culturally informed methodologies and epistemologies, which are essential for conducting respectful and effective research within Indigenous contexts.
For Non-Indigenous Research Students
The School of Indigenous Knowledges actively enrols non-Indigenous students who wish to undertake meaningful Indigenous research. Recognising the importance of collaborative efforts, we welcome non-Indigenous postgraduate research students who are committed to working in partnership with, and contributing positively to, Indigenous communities.
Murdoch's Aboriginal Reference Group has developed a list of priority research topics that represent our community needs. These topics are designed to address pressing issues and opportunities within Indigenous communities, ensuring that the research conducted is both relevant and impactful.
To support non-Indigenous postgraduate research students in delivering on these projects, the School of Indigenous Knowledges provides supervision for Honours, Masters, and Doctoral (PhD) students. By fostering a respectful and inclusive research environment, we aim to produce outcomes that benefit Indigenous communities and contribute to the broader understanding and appreciation of Indigenous Knowledges.
Current Research
Racism and Allyship in Aboriginal Youth Spaces (RAAYS)
RAAYS is an ARC funded Aboriginal-led research project that aims to understand the daily racism – or ‘microaggressions’ - facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adolescents (12-17 years) and how microaggressions can be safely addressed and mitigated by adults who work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adolescents.
Walkern Katatdjin: Rainbow Knowledge
Walkern Katatdjin is a NHMRC-funded national research project that aims to understand and promote the mental health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQA+ young people (14-25 years). The project has spread to Rainbow Knowledge Broome & Kununurra and the Training Health Providers to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQA+ young people.
Queering the Curriculum
LEAD Murdoch University Mini Grant, “Queering Murdoch’s Curriculum: LGBTIQA+ Student-Led Co-Design of Best Practice Guide and Inclusive Classroom Exemplars (Curriculum Innovation and Translation Project).
Embedding the Indigenous Voice in the online student learning experience at Murdoch
This project aims to enhance Truth Telling and awareness of Indigenous cultures by embedding Indigenous Voices throughout MU’s digital learning offerings – every student, every unit, every day.
Best practice in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander higher education
The ACEE Lab regularly conducts research and evaluation of practices to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander university students including the ‘Interrogating relationships between student support initiatives and Indigenous student progression’ project and the ‘Educating Rita and the Cultural Interface’ project exploring intersections between race and gender in the experiences of Aboriginal women at university.