The Language of Tourism: Indigenous Views on Languages and Embedded Values in Tourism Education and Training Contexts (Phase I)

Dr. White was awarded Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council funds to research conflict between the values of words and phrases in tourism and the participation of Indigenous peoples.

This research seeks to examine the embedded values of words and phrases routinely used in the tourism industry that often conflict or contrast with Indigenous worldviews. The purpose of the study is to identify commonly held misunderstandings that may affect the involvement and participation of Indigenous peoples. An Indigenist methodology will inform the research design and the Delphi method used to ensure a range of perspectives to be communicated. The iterative nature of the study will enable rich descriptions for thematic analysis and offer culturally appropriate alternatives to encourage greater respect and transmission of Indigenous values within the tourism and hospitality industry.