Research Ethics During a Pandemic
UWinnipeg’s Ethics Information and Policies
- UWinnipeg Research FAQ & Memos: Important updates regarding research activities (including fieldwork and research ethics) outlined in the linked memos here:
UWinnipeg Research Memo #3: Research Ethics in Pandemic
In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, the University Human Research Ethics Board (UHREB) advises investigators to consider if their research protocols could be modified or delayed to limit personal contacts, laboratory visits, or trips into clinics and hospitals. Specifically, in some research settings in-person participant interactions should be reduced and/or replaced with telephone or online communication. This is particularly important if students are involved. Considerations include: the nature of your protocol, the type of participants engaged in the research, and any additional risk that may arise by switching from in-person to virtual communication. Revised participant consents or consent addendums may be required (e.g., to update privacy considerations with use of different communication channels).
Federal Ethics Guidelines
- [Webpage] . IDRC requires that research involving humans be carried out in accordance with the highest ethical standards. IDRC’s ethical conduct requirements are fundamentally focused on safety, respect, and justice for research participants. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, these specific concerns will be amplified, while also considering the safety of researchers.
- [Webpage] : “This message responds to questions that the Secretariat has received in recent weeks with respect to requirements for REB review and informed consent processes during publicly declared emergencies.”
- [Webpage]
Internet-Based Research Ethics: General
- [Blog post]
- [Video]
Note: Some of the information on this webpage is specific to McMaster University, though some responses are relevant to all researchers in Canada.
Internet-Based Research Ethics: By Topic
Consent for Online Research
- [Web documents - Forthcoming] Portage Network’s COVID-19 Working Group Guidance Documents
- Describes the three elements required by the Tri-Agencies for informed consent: 1) Information 2) Consent for participation 3) Consent for use of information/data
- [Video]
- “What if I need to change study procedures due to COVID-19 and/or social distancing requirements?”
Note: Some of the information on this webpage is specific to McMaster University, though some responses are relevant to all researchers in Canada.
De-Identifying Data
- [Recorded Webinar]