Li, N. (2025). Two eyes, one vision: Evaluating the Etuaptmumk/Two-Eyed Seeing Framework in bridging scientific and indigenous knowledge for climate solutions. The Young Researcher, 9(1), 4-17. http://www.theyoungresearcher.com/papers/nli.pdf

Abstract
Canada’s colonial legacy has long marginalized Indigenous peoples and their knowledge in academia and policy-making. To bridge this gap, Mi’kmaw Elder Albert Marshall introduced the Etuaptmumk/Two-Eyed Seeing (E/TES) framework, aiming to optimize Indigenous knowledge (IK) and Western science. While E/TES is applied in research on fishery management and healthcare, its role in climate research remains underexplored in a cross-cultural context. Using a three-round Delphi study, this study identifies challenges in applying E/TES and strategies for fostering culturally respectful research environments. Findings reveal that common obstacles include the superficial inclusion of IK, the power imbalance between researchers, and di%culties reconciling opposing worldviews. To address these challenges, experts recommend abiding by the research protocols of Indigenous communities, establishing advisory bodies, and providing institutional support for Indigenous-led research. By scrutinizing the operational model of E/TES climate research, this study hopes to guide more inclusive, sustainable, and culturally appropriate research practices and environmental solutions.

Keywords: Etuaptmumk/Two-Eyed Seeing, Indigenous knowledge, Delphi study, cross-cultural research, climate research


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