Embodied within traditional and personal stories are specific Tribal values and beliefs, which contribute to unique ways of knowing and doing. Traditional oral methods of storytelling support Indigenous knowledges and are the methods employed by Indigenous peoples to perpetuate sustain and maintain traditional knowledge. With a focus on the Lummi Tribe of Pacific Northwest Washington and their traditional Sche’lang’en method of knowledge exchange, this thesis examines the narratives and practices associated with the preservation of knowledge interactions.
Drawing on Indigenous research methodologies, this thesis brings together a tripartite of oral methods to capture data, give voice to the participants, and permits the research to be influenced by the context. Lummi ways of knowing and doing are explored through the stories of Elders which provide evidence to argue the validity of oracy as a means for knowledge transmission. Reflection is emphasized as a part of a traditional learning process that encourages thinking about what is learned in relation to what is known, reinforcing the importance of relationality to a traditional Lummi learning process. As a result of this focus Indigenous methodologies are investigated to reinforce a Lummi methodology referred to as Sche’lang’en. This research methodology framework provides a structure to address research from a foundation created by traditional Sche’lang’en knowledge. The framework guides the methods for gathering data, analysis of the information, and the procedures for gifting the findings to the community. The outcomes are research that when conducted by and with Lummi Tribal members reveals knowledge relevant to Lummi Nation.