Best Practice

Understanding Informed Consent in Research

Explore the concept of informed consent in research through this article. Uncover its definition, legal and ethical significance, and best practices for obtaining and documenting consent. This article illuminates the importance of informed consent in upholding participant rights and integrity in the research process.
Lauren Stewart
Qualitative Data Analysis Expert & ATLAS.ti Professional
  1. Introduction
  2. What is informed consent in the research process?
  3. What is the purpose of the informed consent process?
  4. Why is informed consent required?
  5. Obtaining and documenting informed consent
  6. Best practices for informed consent

Introduction

In qualitative research, the principle of informed consent is a cornerstone of ethical practice. Through informed consent, research has the necessary guardrails for ensuring researcher ethics while informing participants of their rights to privacy and confidentiality.

This introductory section illuminates the vital role informed consent plays in the research process, underscoring its significance in protecting participant rights and ensuring ethical standards. As we navigate through the complexities of this concept, we will explore its definition, purpose, and the imperative for its requirement in research.

Additionally, we will look at the practical aspects of obtaining and documenting informed consent, highlighting its critical importance in the integrity and ethical conduct of research endeavors.

This guide will prepare researchers and participants alike, emphasizing informed consent as a key element in fostering trust and transparency in qualitative research.

Written informed consent is a key component to collecting data in any human subjects research.