Learn Before
Short Answer

A researcher argues that they can dispense with obtaining informed consent for a study where they observe and record the walking speed of shoppers in a public mall, noting only estimated age and gender without collecting any identifying information. Evaluate whether the researcher's decision to dispense with informed consent is ethically justified based on standard research ethics criteria.

Question: A researcher argues that they can dispense with obtaining informed consent for a study where they observe and record the walking speed of shoppers in a public mall, noting only estimated age and gender without collecting any identifying information. Evaluate whether the researcher's decision to dispense with informed consent is ethically justified based on standard research ethics criteria.

Sample answer: Yes, the decision is ethically justified. Informed consent can be dispensed with when the research is not expected to cause any harm, the procedure is straightforward, and the study is conducted in the context of people's ordinary activities (like walking in a public mall) where there is no expectation of privacy and no identifying details are recorded.

Key points:

  • Determining that dispensing with consent is ethically justified in this scenario.
  • Justifying the evaluation by explaining that the study involves people's ordinary activities.
  • Justifying the evaluation by noting the straightforward procedure, lack of expected harm, and absence of identifying information.

Rubric: Students must state that dispensing with consent is justified and explain why by citing the criteria: 1) the research is not expected to cause any harm, 2) the procedure is straightforward, and 3) the study takes place in the context of people's ordinary activities without identifying information.

0

1

Updated 2026-05-27

Contributors are:

Who are from:

Tags

KPU

Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

Related