Doing Ethical Research
Description
This session reflects on ethical research practice in relation to MSc dissertations. The session will first consist of a short lecture explaining the key principles of ethical practice. Following this, participants will reflect upon case studies which highlight the practical implications of conducting ethical research in the social and political sciences. This will be followed by a brief discussion of formal ethics processes in SPS, which will include guidance on completing ethics forms.
The session is introductory in nature and is suited to participants who are at the start of the process of considering research ethics. The session will outline ethical dimensions that are common across much research in the social and political sciences; disciplinary- and project-specific advice should be sought via supervisors where appropriate. Please note that attendance is highly recommended for MSc students undertaking a work-based placement.
From this session, participants will:
• Gain an appreciation of the type of issues referred to in discussions of research ethics in the social and political sciences.
• Reflect on the practical implications of doing ethical research.
• Be mindful of the role and obligations of the researcher in relation to ethical principles.
• Understand the intention behind the SPS ethics process and consider the importance of ethics when undertaking research.