Racism in Research Methods : Creating an Anti-Racist Research Guide

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to investigate the theory and methods of anti-racist research practices related to disciplines at UW-Eau Claire and produce a library guide for students and faculty. Anti-racist research practices consider and try to counteract the effects of historical and contemporary racism on the design and outcomes of research projects. While scientific racism has been well-documented and anti-racist methods have been advocated in scientific and medical fields, they have also been applied in humanities, education, and business fields. We first reviewed research on anti-racist research methodology, and then developed the guide, selecting examples to illustrate anti-racist research practices in every field. Through the guide, we hope to reinforce that research design and methods are not neutral but require scrutiny to avoid reinforcing traditions and practices that favor white western hegemony.