Ethics and Science in the Participatory Era: A Vignette-Based Delphi Study

Area of Science:

• Health Research Ethics
• Participatory Research Methods

Background:

• Participatory researchers utilize relationship-based ethical considerations to navigate complex challenges.
• Limited understanding exists regarding how these ethical considerations influence daily decision-making processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how health researchers with varying experience in participatory research make ethical decisions.
• To investigate the practical application of relationship-based ethics in day-to-day research.

Main Methods:

• An online modified-Delphi panel was employed.
• Health researchers were presented with vignettes depicting ethical dilemmas.
• Participants rated potential solutions and provided rationales through text boxes and discussion boards.

Main Results:

• Agreement on a preferred solution was reached for three out of five vignettes.
• Participants emphasized the importance of inclusivity and diverse perspectives in ethical decision-making.
• Scientific goals and value-free scientific validity were prioritized over participatory goals.

Conclusions:

• Ethical decision-making in research should incorporate diverse viewpoints.
• Participatory research ethics are challenging to codify but can be supported by vignette-based learning.
• Vignette-based learning shows potential for supporting didactic objectives in research ethics education.