Research Ethics
Before we even think about getting started on research, research ethics needs to be considered. The history of how humans have treated each other in the name of research has not been stellar. In November 2010, President Obama ordered a review of research ethics guidelines because there was evidence discovered about a significant ethics violation involving human subjects. It was revealed that American scientists intentionally infected citizens of Guatemala, who were in a mental hospital at the time, with syphilis in the 1940’s. Even if the research is going to happen in one small classroom or a nonprofit organization, or in one small town, proper research ethics procedures must be followed.
Reading: There are three reading tasks to accomplish to enhance your understanding of research ethics.
1. What is the history of ethics in research? TimeLine investigation.
2. Examine ethics in research by reading an article in depth to develop a deeper understanding of the issues surrounding ethics in research.