Research Ethics: A brief Introduction

Abstract

The purpose of this session  is to engage students in reading about, considering, and discussing the  ethical conduct of research involving humans. At the end of the session, students should have basic knowledge of the purpose and value of ethical decision-making, key issues and concepts in research ethics,  and the three core principles as defined by the Tri-Council Policy Statement and how to apply them to their own research studies. We will also discuss: the definition of minimal risk and how that is applied in  the review of research; consent and confidentiality; and vulnerability in context. There will be a brief overview of the ethics review process, and some issues that may arise. Finally, students will be made aware of  resources where they can obtain more information about research ethics and the ethics review process.

Biography

Dina Shafey, PhD, MBA has been the Associate Director, Office of Research Ethics at Simon Fraser University since October 2012 and has been working in research ethics for over 8 years. Dina previously held roles at Fraser Health Authority and BC Children’s Hospital. In her current role at SFU, Dina ensures that the concepts and requirements of ethical conduct in research are communicated to students, Faculty, staff, and REB members by conducting educational and training sessions. In addition, Dina facilitates the review and ethics approval of human participant research that is conducted under the auspices of Simon Fraser University.

Recommended Resources

1. Tri-Council Policy Statement (TCPS2 2014): http://www.pre.ethics.gc.ca/eng/policy-politique/initiatives/tcps2-eptc2/Default/

2. Graduate Student Tutorial (TCPS2 Tutorial): http://www.pre.ethics.gc.ca/eng/education/tutorial-didacticiel/