Sage Publications

Research Ethics for Beginners

Labor Day starts with $70+ in savings on Coursera Plus. Save 40% for 3 months.

Sage Publications

Research Ethics for Beginners

Sage Instructors

Instructor: Sage Instructors

Included with Coursera PlusLearn more

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
No prior experience required
5 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
No prior experience required
5 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Recognize the significance of research ethics from historical and contemporary perspectives, including expectations for ethical conduct in research

  • Assess the credibility of research sources and apply strategies for fact-checking and responsible research practice

  • Navigate ethical considerations in human research, including research ethics guidelines, review processes, and approval requirements

  • Reflect on personal identity and culturally responsive research ethics to develop an aspirational ethical stance

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Recently updated!

September 2026

Assessments

4 assignments

Taught in English

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

 logos of Petrobras, TATA, Danone, Capgemini, P&G and L'Oreal

There are 5 modules in this course

This module introduces the foundations of research ethics and their importance in conducting high-quality human research. You will explore key ethical principles, examine how ethical considerations can vary across contexts and communities, and learn how to apply research ethics guidelines when designing studies, preparing research proposals, and seeking ethical approval.

What's included

1 reading1 assignment1 plugin

This module explores the historical foundations of human research ethics and the lessons learned from past examples of unethical research. You will examine how research ethics standards have evolved, develop an understanding of the responsibilities researchers have towards participants, and recognize the importance of conducting research in ways that uphold ethical principles, protect individuals, and promote trust in the research process.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

This module explores the ethical principles, frameworks, and governance structures that guide contemporary human research. You will examine the core concepts of beneficence, autonomy, and justice, learn about the role of research ethics boards and review processes, and consider how evolving research contexts and emerging technologies continue to shape ethical responsibilities throughout the research lifecycle.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

This module explores how researchers can move beyond minimum ethical requirements and adopt a more reflective, culturally responsive approach to research ethics. You will examine a range of ethical frameworks, consider how identity, culture, and power influence the research process, and learn how to develop an aspirational ethical stance that promotes respect, inclusion, empowerment, and meaningful engagement with diverse and underrepresented communities.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

In addition to the glossary you’ll find woven throughout the course, you can find the full glossary collated in one place here.

What's included

1 plugin

Instructor

Sage Instructors
Sage Publications
87 Courses3,814 learners

Offered by

Explore more from Education

Why people choose Coursera for their career

Felipe M.

Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."

Jennifer J.

Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."

Larry W.

Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."

Chaitanya A.

"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."

Frequently asked questions