Ethical Research Involving Children

Beliefs and principles in practice: Ethical research with child participants.

Hedges, H. (2002). Beliefs and principles in practice: Ethical research with child participants. New Zealand Research in Early Childhood Education, 5. pp. 31-48.

Abstract: Choosing a research method involves fitting research techniques to a research question. The choice may also be influenced by the beliefs the researcher holds. This paper reviews beliefs and ethical principles associated with a research study that included children as participants. These beliefs and principles are examined in light of the research experience, with particular regard to the methodology used and the veracity of the findings. Consistent with sociocultural theory, a commitment to seeking principles, approaches and methods that empower children’s active participation in research is advocated. (Abstract kindly reproduced with permission from Child Forum, New Zealand)