Epistemology Essay

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The ontology and epistemology of the researcher influences the design of tools for health education. However, it is imperative that the researcher is aware of, one’s own culture, values, assumptions and beliefs (7), and recognizes how these inherent biases/prejudices may influence the design of health education tools. The researcher must be mindful of the target population’s ontology and way of learning so as to ensure that the tool provides learning and information in the manner familiar and comfortable to the recipients as this will increase learning and produce sustainable change. Most importantly, the underlining theory that guides the design of the tool must be commensurate with Indigenous epistemology. For example, in my research, my social constructivism stance accepts that what is real may vary between groups of individuals. Also, reality may change when individuals become more informed due to social interactions, which may affect their learning approach, decisions, and what they consider important in respect to their health. Therefore, considering that Indigenous ontology and epistemology focus on learning and relationships from numerous sources, Self Determination Theory (SDT) which was utilized as the underpinning theory for the development of the health education tool supports decolonization, …show more content…

A health education tool that is explicit, practical, positive, non-fear inducing and oppressive, acknowledges cultural and traditional practices, the social determinants of health, and the diversity of cultures within a population will increase the success of the health education intervention. It will also promote autonomy, usability, sustainability, self-determination, empowerment, and motivation for behavior change in the Indigenous

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