Local residents and visiting researchers have much to offer each other. Northern people have an intimate knowledge of their community and the land. Their knowledge of local conditions and problems, and their access to traditional knowledge, may suggest new directions for research.

In addition, the North has changed rapidly and significantly over the last decade. Many residents of the NWT communities possess high levels of scientific training and knowledge and can provide valuable information and assistance to visiting researchers.

As a researcher, you can share your knowledge by speaking at community council meetings, giving talks at schools or providing non-technical posters to display at local libraries or community centres. Alternately, you can produce a short, informal video of your research with emphasis on your field work and results.

Also, you should consider including residents in field trips or hiring them to assist with your research. If you plan on hiring assistants, Aurora Research Institute staff may be able to provide you with local contacts who do, or have done, scientific work in related disciplines or who have specific knowledge in your field.

By communicating your enthusiasm for your research and/or involving residents in your field work, you may motivate local people to participate in science. Providing residents with an opportunity to participate in or comment on your research not only improves relations between researchers and residents, but also fosters a research-oriented community in the North.