Models of successful collaboration

This chapter uses case studies to develop a model of productive collaborative research. In contrast to the privileged position academician-researchers may accord themselves, true collaborations recognize full agency in all key participants and attempt to align their disparate aims. More than in the business world, collaborations in language documentation and revitalization require active bridging the motivations of multiple actors to establish and maintain a community of practice. Ingredients for successful collaborations are closely tied to emerging models of research ethics, and include establishing working relationships based on inclusiveness; fully consultative planning; clear goal-setting; mutual training; a smooth workflow; flexibility; and the empowerment of indigenous capacities beyond the scope of the original project.