A recent study sheds light on significant challenges and conflicts surrounding research ethics, especially in view of new technologies like artificial intelligence, and urges the creation of updated research ethics guidelines.
A recent study sheds light on significant challenges and conflicts surrounding research ethics, especially in view of new technologies like artificial intelligence, and urges the creation of updated research ethics guidelines.
“Research ethics encompasses more than the treatment of human and animal subjects or ensuring the accuracy of data; it also involves evaluating the broader effects that research may have on society,” stated Associate Professor Simon Knight from the University of Technology Sydney, who is the lead author of the study.
“For instance, advancements in facial recognition technologies bring ethical dilemmas regarding their potential use for surveillance, military applications, or other products, and the risk of discrimination stemming from inherent biases in these technologies,” he explained.
The research, titled “Emerging technologies and research ethics: Developing editorial policy using a scoping review and reference panel,” has recently appeared in the journal PLOS ONE.
This work was completed by a team of international researchers who have served as editors-in-chief for well-regarded educational technology journals, such as the Australasian Journal of Educational Technology, British Journal of Educational Technology, and Journal of Learning Analytics.
Building on existing research ethics publication standards, the researchers formulated new guidelines for articulating research ethics in scholarly writings across various fields, aiming to encourage dialogue and education regarding ethical matters.
“Academic journal articles serve as a primary method of communication among researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and the general public. To convey the values embedded in our research, we must articulate them clearly,” remarked Associate Professor Knight.
Neglecting to tackle the ethical dilemmas arising from academic research can erode public confidence in science, result in reduced funding for research endeavors, and foster hesitance in embracing new technologies or medical solutions.
“These policy templates and guidelines are meant for authors, reviewers, and editors to incorporate or adapt within their own communities. They are designed to facilitate learning and the exchange of knowledge among research communities and relevant stakeholders.”
The study also included a scoping review of current innovations in publication policies related to research ethics and how journals and authors adopt these policies. Notable innovations consist of enhanced guidance for reviewers and the introduction of the role of ‘ethics reviewer’.
The review indicates that nearly half of academic journals do not possess explicit ethics reporting standards, and among those that do, compliance often resembles a mechanical ‘box-ticking’ process rather than a thorough assessment of ethical issues.
“We must transition from compliance-focused ethics to promoting ethical practices and norms, ensuring this shift does not hinder publication processes or escalate administrative burdens. Additionally, we must address both present and future research ethics challenges,” stated Associate Professor Knight.
Academic journals and their editors play a vital part in fostering ethical practices and safeguarding the integrity of research. By encouraging attention to ethical considerations, they aid in the development of knowledge that is both credible and socially responsible.
