Transdisciplinary research with Sámi reindeer herders: A comparative case study analysis

There is a growing interest in conducting research with Indigenous Peoples in Arctic regions. Sámi herders, practicing reindeer husbandry for centuries, are increasingly involved in social-ecological research. This study reflects on transdisciplinary research projects conducted in collaboration between researchers and Sámi herders. In particular, the study investigates how the transdisciplinary projects implemented co-production of knowledge and which ethical considerations were followed to assure responsible collaboration. A comparative case study analysis was conducted to gain insights about transdisciplinary research practices, reviewing the content of publications and reports of five case studies in Fennoscandia. The results show a variety of methods of co-production, levels of participation and involvement, as well as a lack of a shared ethical approach. In conclusion, the results suggest that TDR represents a spectrum of research modes that can be improved in their efforts to be ethically responsible. On this basis, the study encourages researchers and participants to report their experiences and reflections in research collaboration to promote learning on how to conduct TDR responsibly. Further, the study stresses the need for an ethical framework for collaborative research developed by Sámi.