Social issues in research
Introduction
The fifth generic quality involves the development of a commitment
to ethical action and social responsibility as a researcher in a
discipline or professional area and as a leading citizen. Higher
degree by research
students should be aware of their ethical requirements
within the professional area and practice, and of the ethical
demands that arise from new knowledge generated by research in the
area.
UniSA resources
On campus workshops
Research Education Support Activities (RESA) offers on campus workshops relevant to ethics in research as part of the core series (eg Ethics proposal in the Business, social sciences and humanities commencing program and Understanding politics, ethics and financial aspects of research in the Sciences, engineering and technology advancing research program). Check the calendar for details of when these workshops are offered.
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Online workshops, courses and resources
Ethics and compliance index (RESA) provides links to online workshops, courses and resources.
Indigenous research (Research and Innovation Services) outlines UniSA procedures for undertaking research with Indigenous participants. Research outside Australia or in the workplace may also have social and cultural implications.
Policies
The National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research and Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research are key national documents which guide and influence the way research is conducted and managed. Both documents place greater emphasis on institutional responsibilities and accountability in the conduct of ethical research and more clearly outline the responsibilities of researchers. Links to documents and UniSA's approach are provided at the above links.
Other resources
ATN LEAP Program is a resource for postgraduate research students (and their supervisors) at universities in the Australian Technology Network, which 'gives you the opportunity to improve your employment skills while you study'. Contact Graduate Studies Office for more information.
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Research Commercialisation module covers:
- Conceptions of research - from intellectual curiosity to commercial development
- Research and development locally and globally
- Commercialisation cycle - ethical and legal frameworks - intellectual property
- Marketing the idea - networking, presentation, applying for funding
- Forming start-up companies and securing venture capital
Health ethics (National Health and Medical Research Council, Australia): covers animal research ethics, human research ethics, ethical issues, human embryos and cloning; research integrity.
What is ethics in research and why is it important? (David B. Resnik, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, USA) for an international view - 'Given the importance of ethics for the conduct of research, it should come as no surprise that many different professional associations, government agencies, and universities have adopted specific codes, rules, and policies relating to research ethics.'