Different paradigms reflect different ontologies and epistemologies; recognising this helps researchers respect that First Peoples have distinct knowledge systems and ways of understanding reality that differ from Western approaches

Research paradigms are primarily administrative categories used by universities to organise research projects into different departments and funding streams

It allows researchers to choose the most cost-effective methods for data collection and ensures research projects stay within allocated budgets and timelines

Understanding paradigms ensures that all research with First Peoples uses quantitative methods, which are considered more objective and scientifically rigorous than qualitative approaches