Qualitative Research Ethics: An Heuristic Inquiry Exploring the Meaning and Application of Ethics in Qualitative Research
Date
2012
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Abstract
In this study, 10 Canadian qualitative researchers discuss how they identify, understand, and manage ethical concerns that arise in ethically important moments that occur over the course of the qualitative research process. Accounts of ethically important moments involving personal struggles, relational challenges and methodological complications are presented in this heuristic inquiry. The dynamic nature of qualitative research ethics is portrayed using a metaphorical balancing scale. On one side are ethical factors that relate to social or human aspects of qualitative research. On the other side are ethical factors that relate to qualitative research as science and focus on methodological aspects of qualitative research. The emphasis placed on each of these factors varies depending on the nature of the study, the researcher, the participants, the contextual factors influencing the research and the ethical concerns being addressed. Ethical decision-making is full of complexities and goes beyond ensuring no harm is done to conducting research for the purpose of the betterment of people. Qualitative research ethics is also about relational accountability, honoring others’ experience and the pursuit of social justice. Qualitative research ethics cannot be separated from the people involved. It is a philosophy and a way of being as a researcher.
Description
Bibliography: p. 272-287
Includes copy of ethics approval. Original copy with original Partial Copyright Licence.
Includes copy of ethics approval. Original copy with original Partial Copyright Licence.
Keywords
Qualitative research ethics, Ethically important moments, Heuristic research, Ethical balance
Citation
Snyder, L. (2012). Qualitative Research Ethics: An Heuristic Inquiry Exploring the Meaning and Application of Ethics in Qualitative Research (Doctoral thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/11588