Using co-creation methods for research integrity guideline development - how, what, why and when?

Area of Science:

• Research Integrity
• Scientific Ethics
• Guideline Development

Background:

• Existing methods for developing research integrity (RI) guidelines often lack diverse stakeholder input.
• There is a need for guidance on the application and outcomes of co-creation in RI guideline development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the gap in knowledge regarding the use of co-creation for developing RI guidelines.
• To provide insights into the practical application, outcomes, and rationale for employing co-creation methods in RI guideline development.

Main Methods:

• Discussing the 'how' of co-creation for RI guidelines, including preparation, participant sensitization, workshops, and data translation.
• Presenting the co-created RI guidelines as an example of the 'what' outcome.
• Reflecting on the 'why' and 'when' to use co-creation, emphasizing stakeholder engagement and diverse perspectives.

Main Results:

• Co-creation facilitates the inclusion of diverse perspectives and stakeholder engagement in RI guideline development.
• The process involves distinct steps from preparation and participant sensitization to workshop facilitation and guideline finalization.
• Co-created guidelines show potential for implementability when supplemented with further steps like revision working groups.

Conclusions:

• Co-creation methods are a valuable approach for developing research integrity guidelines.
• Integrating co-creation with additional methods enhances the creation of robust and implementable RI guidelines.
• The study highlights the strengths of co-creation in fostering inclusivity and stakeholder buy-in for RI initiatives.