This paper examines ongoing changes related to appropriate methods and practices in Aboriginal educational research, including community control of research based on the principle of self-determination. This assertion of control includes the redefinition of relationships in the research process; appropriate initiation of research projects; establishing adequate and acceptable funding arrangements; development of appropriate consultation and negotiation procedures; construction and implementation of appropriate research methodologies; concerns about the appropriation of knowledge; establishment of accountability procedures; and proper recognition of rights in terms of ownership, copyright, and publication. Historically, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia have been subjected to a range of inappropriate, unacceptable, and degrading research methodologies. Another concern is the extraction of knowledge from Aboriginal communities that benefits individual researchers, but provides little benefit to the community. An appropriate and powerful research methodology is participatory action research, which allows critical thought to be transformed into action through community decision making. The initiation and development of research proposals that are based on principles of community control and self-determination require that people have appropriate and sufficient opportunity to consider issues and make meaningful decisions for themselves and in collaboration with others. Most important, Aboriginal decision-making processes and cultural obligations must be respected and adhered to at all times when conducting educational research. (LP)