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Why Ethics Matter

Ethical Research

Nick Barter, Angela Victor, Chris Rawson, Christopher Stevenson, Gary Allen, and Georgie Lowe

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is aimed at anyone interested in ethics and research. It may be of particular interest to people who are undertaking a research project related to their profession or area of study. You can use the hashtag #FLethicsmatters to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

The role of ethics in research today and the historical context
Core principles underpinning ethical codes
Identifying conflicts of interest and managing bias
Navigating ethical dilemmas and repercussions of unethical behavior
Special considerations for research involving people and animals
Preparing for the ethics application

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Reviews summary

Essential research ethics foundation

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and well-structured overview of ethical research, proving particularly insightful for budding researchers and professionals seeking a strong foundation. Students frequently highlight the clarity of its lectures and the relevance of topics such as navigating ethical dilemmas, managing bias, and preparing ethics applications. While many appreciate the practical case studies and knowledgeable instructors, some experienced learners noted it could be too theoretical or basic for advanced insights, desiring more hands-on activities. Recent reviews indicate a largely positive reception, suggesting its continued value.

Examples could be more updated, but content is valuable.

"I think the course would benefit from more updated examples, as some felt a bit dated."

"It covers the basics of research ethics, but I felt some of the examples were not very contemporary."

Ideal for beginners, providing a solid introductory framework.

"It's an excellent primer for those new to the field."

"Absolutely essential for any budding researcher."

"This course provides a solid framework for understanding ethical research. The material is relevant for a broad audience..."

Practical insights for research projects & ethics.

"The content on navigating ethical dilemmas was particularly useful for my ongoing research project."

"I found the module on preparing for ethics applications quite practical."

"As a professional, I found the practical advice on navigating dilemmas and preparing ethics applications invaluable."

Well-structured, clear overview of research ethics.

"This course was incredibly insightful and well-structured... I highly recommend it for anyone starting out in research..."

"Fantastic course! The discussions on conflicts of interest and managing bias were incredibly relevant to my professional work. I found the lectures clear and concise..."

"Absolutely essential for any budding researcher. The comprehensive coverage from historical context to modern dilemmas... was incredibly informative."

Desire for more hands-on activities & interactivity.

"I was hoping for more hands-on scenarios or interactive exercises beyond the readings."

"I found the course quite repetitive in some modules. While the topic is crucial, the delivery could be more engaging. It felt like a lot of reading..."

"I did wish for more discussion forums or opportunities to apply the principles in hypothetical scenarios with feedback."

Too basic or theoretical for experienced learners.

"Some parts felt a bit basic for me as an experienced researcher..."

"For someone already familiar with basic ethical concepts, it might not offer much new. It's too high-level for practical researchers looking for advanced insights."

"The course covers essential ground, but at times it felt a little too theoretical for my taste. I was hoping for more hands-on scenarios..."

Career center

Learners who complete Why Ethics Matter: Ethical Research will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Why Ethics Matter: Ethical Research.

The Souls of Black Folk

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This classic book collection of essays by W. E. B. Du Bois, one of the most important and influential African American intellectuals of the 20th century. Du Bois writes about race, the African American experience, and the struggle for civil rights.

Why Ethics Matter

Topics Covered

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Essential research ethics foundation

Career center

Reading list

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