Professional Learning Community: Ethics in Research Group
Professional Learning Community: Ethics in Research Group
An Institutional Review Board (IRB), also known as a Human Subjects Research Board (HSRB), is established to protect the rights, welfare, and dignity of individuals who participate in research studies. These boards play a critical role in ensuring that research involving human participants is conducted ethically and responsibly, particularly in educational and social science research.
The IRB is responsible for reviewing research proposals to ensure that they comply with established ethical standards. One of its primary functions is to safeguard participants from potential harm, whether physical, psychological, or emotional. It also ensures that participants provide informed consent and fully understand the purpose, procedures, and potential risks of the study.
Additionally, IRBs ensure that research practices align with the ethical principles outlined in the Belmont Report. These principles include respect for persons, beneficence, and justice, which guide researchers in conducting fair and responsible studies. By enforcing these standards, IRBs help maintain integrity in research and protect the well-being of all participants.