Research Ethics in Practice

Ethics is More Than an Approval Form

Many students believe research ethics ends once the university ethics committee approves their project.

It doesn't.

Research Ethics in Practice shows that ethical research is an ongoing responsibility that begins long before data collection and continues long after the research has been completed.

Part of The Simplified Research Series, this practical guide explains how to conduct research ethically at every stage of the research process using clear language, real-world examples and engaging case studies.

Inside this book you will learn how to:

• Understand why research ethics exists

• Apply the Belmont Principles in practice

• Navigate UK research ethics frameworks

• Design meaningful informed consent processes

• Protect confidentiality, anonymity and participant privacy

• Manage research involving vulnerable participants

• Conduct ethical digital and online research

• Address power, equity and epistemic justice in research

• Handle AI and social media research ethically

• Understand positionality and insider research

• Respond to ethical dilemmas during fieldwork

• Complete university ethics applications with confidence

Unlike many research methods books, this guide treats ethics as a living practice rather than a bureaucratic exercise. Through authentic research scenarios, practical checklists, reflective activities and decision-making tools, readers learn how ethical judgement develops throughout the research journey.

Ideal for undergraduate dissertations, master's theses, doctoral research, practitioner research and professional doctorates, this book equips researchers with the confidence to protect participants while producing trustworthy, rigorous and socially responsible research.