Ethics in Research

Hi Sheila,

This week's topic has great implications to consider whenever one is engaged in research, even for us as educators. One idea I found particularly interesting came up with Dr. Cranton's question regarding groups with a vested interest in a specific type of research providing the money, or some of it, for the project. What really caught my attention is the fact that these groups or organizations can determine what information they choose to release to the public and what information they do not release. I am somewhat naive and tend to believe things I read or am told and I had not thought about this before. It has made me realize that one must view the research with some skepticism and not take it as the complete truth.

Chapter 10 of the text also divulged some concepts of interest for me. Although, I believe I was aware of many of them seeing them written certainly confirmed my expectations. The first is the amount of control the researcher has when collecting data by deciding the type of design to use, the relationship between the researcher and participants, how much information the participants receive, deception, etc. and how easily unethical practices can happen, intentional or not. Also, the idea of whether or not the researcher should intervene while being involved in some way with a situation that appears to be unethical. Merriam and Simpson (2000) indicate that "failure to act is itself 'an ethical and political choice' that researchers must come to terms with". This is certainly not a situation I would want to place myself in. Finally, in relation to this, it is the responsibility of the researcher to minimize the possibility of error to the best of their ability by checking all data and any conclusions drawn from it. Phew, what a huge responsibility, but these standards give the researcher something to abide by as well as a responsibility to the public.

I also think the following points taken from the text are of utmost importance and a good way to finalize this post. They are as follows, from page 205:
1. research should be undertaken only after careful consideration of its plausible consequences
2. results should be presented in a way that promises the least potential for distortion and the greatest opportunity for social gains, and
3. special care should be taken, when publicizing the research, to state conditions pertinent to the usefulness of the research in applied contexts.

I am looking forward to hearing from you and getting your opinions and insight about the information from this chapter. Although it was a short read, it has presented innumerable ideas that must be considered when doing research.

Have a wonderful weekend with your family.
Catherine