The World Health Organization (WHO) describes ethics as making sure research upholds a strong standard of conduct. It is important to make sure the design, conduct and put into action is respectful and considerate of everyone. It is also important to make sure there is appropriate use of resources, funding, scientific conduct and regulation.
Some ethical considerations may include:
- For human participants: The research must maximise benefits and minimise risk. Research needs to be transparent and respectful. Participation is voluntary and requires informed consent.
- For the welfare of animal subjects: It must satisfy scientific standards, and stop or reduce any pain, suffering distress of lasting harm.
- Handling and respecting personal data and intellectual property.
- Health and safety.
Designing the research protocol. This includes:
1. Working with your project team to plan the activities you intend to carry out.
- Gather evidence and carry out initial supporting work.
- Set out a timeline and solutions to any possible problems.
2. Understand what you need when handing in your submission to a Research Ethics Committee. For example, this involves meeting ethical standards for research with people or animals. You can also consult others for help who have done this before or the Ethics Committee Office.
3. Prepare your documents and submit. Researchers must prepare detailed protocols outlining the purpose, methods, and strategies to protect participants’.
4. Review Process: The Ethics Committee checks the proposal (the research plan). This includes:
- Checking the consent process.
- The privacy of the participants.
- Data sharing.
- If the project can minimise risk.
- The transparency in the research project.
- The protection of vulnerable groups or people such as those with cognitive and physical difficulties.
5. Ethical Approval and Monitoring: Before starting the research project you need to gain ethics approval. This makes sure everyone is doing the right thing throughout the project.