Conceptual models in Western science are used to represent key processes and relationships within a system and to unify knowledge across disciplines. In this paper, we develop a conceptual model through research that spans both Western science and Indigenous Knowledge. Drawing on participatory mapping and interviews with Inuit knowledge-holders in Makkovik ( Maggovik in Inuttitut), Nunatsiavut, Canada, we document Inuit Knowledge of the landfast sea ice season. A thematic analysis identified key environmental indicators used by Inuit to describe the drivers of local sea ice conditions and observed changes over seasonal, interannual, and climatic time scales. In collaboration with participants, we developed a conceptual model of the seasonal cycle of landfast sea ice. Grounded in an Inuit worldview, the model seeks to minimize Western scientific interpretations and biases. It depicts the seasonal progression of landfast sea ice, including the processes and drivers of environmental conditions and changes over time. This approach offers a practical method for documenting Inuit Knowledge and shows how conceptual models can serve as culturally grounded frameworks. The resulting model provides a foundation for future scientific research that is both representative of and responsive to Inuit experiences and ways of knowing the environment.
Bishop et al. (Thu,) studied this question.