Introduction to Research Ethics: Working with People

Ensure your research is up to the highest ethical standards

Research ethics is vital when conducting research with people. Non ethical research may put research subjects at risk and even jeopardise the validity of the findings. As we undertake more and more research using increasingly diverse methods like the internet, it is important to get it right the first time.

On this course, you will learn the principles of ethical research, and how to manage human subject research in sensitive and appropriate ways. You will consider issues like gaining consent, making sure that personal information is handled safely, and recruiting vulnerable participants.

This course is useful for learners undertaking research with people using social research methods such as questionnaires, interviews etc.

The course is essential for undergraduate students completing research for their final year project but it is also suitable for postgraduates and academic researchers.

The course is part of the academic skills courses portfolio at the University of Leeds aiming to improve skills required for academic study.

• Working with people
• Welcome
• Research ethics: why it matters
• What are the ethical considerations when recruiting people to your research?
• Additional considerations for vulnerable participants
• Summary
• Responsibilities towards participants and their data
• Welcome to Week 2
• Could your research cause harm?
• How can you protect your participants personal data?
• What are the ethical issues from researching in archives and online
• Summary