South African Journal of Childhood Education 4(2):a211 Ethical considerations in educational research involving children : implications for educational researchers in South Africa
Type
E-Journal
Authors
ISSN
2223-7682
Category
ECCE, Foundation, Intermediate, Senior
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Publication Year
2014
Publisher
Aosis OpenJournals, Durbanville, Cape Town, South Africa
URL
[ private ]
Pages
19 p.
Subject
Early childhood education, Primary education, Secondary education, Children’s rights, Educational research, Ethics, Social justice, Vulnerable children, United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), South Africa
Tags
Abstract
Adopting a social justice theoretical framework, the author proposes that the involvement of children in educational research is paramount. However, such involvement often exposes children to exploitation and a violation of their rights. As such, it is essential that all research involving children should be ethically sound. Hence, the purpose of this study was to explore ethical considerations in educational research involving children, especially in South Africa, which was historically known for the marginalization of and discrimination against children. This generic qualitative study included a sample of eight experts with extensive knowledge of the ethical concerns surrounding children’s participation in research activities. Data was collected through individual interviews, a questionnaire, and the analysis of documents and instruments pertaining to the ethical-legal protection of children’s involvement in research activities in South Africa. The findings identify several ethical principles that should be considered within a South African perspective and which have specific implications for educational researchers.
Description
Article
Number of Copies
1
