A Taxonomy for Research Intergrity Training: Design, Conduct, and Improvements in Research Integrity Courses

Area of Science:

• Education
• Scientific Integrity

Background:

• Research integrity training effectiveness data is scattered.
• Existing meta-reviews lack guidance for specific target groups and learning outcomes.
• Improved course design requires better information on training activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce an easy-to-use taxonomy for research integrity training (TRIT).
• To foster mutual exchange and improve research integrity course design.
• To provide practitioners with references for identifying didactic interrelations and knowledge gaps.

Main Methods:

• Developed a taxonomy based on Kirkpatrick's four levels of evaluation.
• Described the taxonomy for research integrity training (TRIT) in detail.
• Outlined three European projects, detailing their intended training effects, learning outcomes, activities, and assessment instruments.

Main Results:

• The article presents a unified approach to research integrity training design.
• The TRIT taxonomy aids in identifying didactic interrelations and impacts.
• The taxonomy helps pinpoint knowledge gaps in research integrity course design.

Conclusions:

• The proposed taxonomy is easy to use and facilitates tailored, evidence-based redesign of research integrity training.
• It enables practitioners to make informed decisions for improving research integrity education.
• The TRIT framework supports the development of more effective research integrity training programs.