Skip to Main Content

Data managent in Thesis: Research ethics

Research ethics and materials

Research ethics is part of good data management. The materials of the thesis must be collected and processed in accordance with research ethical principles.


Theses are subject to the same general ethical principles as other research conducted in Finland:
 
  • the researcher respects the human dignity and right to self-determination of the persons being researched
  • the researcher respects tangible and intangible cultural heritage and natural diversity
  • the researcher conducts their research in such a way that it does not cause significant risks, damages or harm to the people being researched, the community or other research subjects
     

Good scientific practice

Good scientific practice is a procedural guideline, the purpose of which is to ensure that the research is carried out in an ethically acceptable manner and that the research results are credible. Good scientific practice applies not only to actual scientific research but also to theses, teaching and guidance in higher education institutions. Haaga-Helia, like other higher education institutions, is committed to following good scientific practice. A perceived violation of good scientific practice is grounds for rejecting the thesis.


The implementation of good scientific practice in Finland is monitored by the Research Ethics Advisory Board, which is a joint ethical institution of higher education institutions. The advisory committee has also defined violations of good scientific practice.
 

When the research object of the thesis is a human being

Is a research permit required?


When the research object of the thesis is an organization, the organization's activities or its representatives (e.g. staff or students), a research permit from the organization is required before starting the collection of material. It is in accordance with good research practice.
Permit practices and conditions for granting permits vary from organization to organization. Larger organizations, such as universities, often have their own research permit application, which can be found on the organization's website. If the organization does not have a separate research permit application, contact the organization's representative to request a research permit.


A research permit is also required when the research focuses on Haaga-Helia, check the guidelines here


Please note that the research permission received from the organization does not replace the consent given by the subjects. Regarding participation in research, e.g. an interview or a survey, each subject decides for themself and gives their consent personally.

 

Information and consent of the subject


A key research ethical principle is also that the subject's participation is voluntary. For this reason, the subject should be told clearly and comprehensibly:

  • the objectives of the research and its content
  • about those implementing the research and relevant affiliations (e.g. financiers and clients)
  • about the practical implementation of the research as well as what participation in the research actually means
  • about the possible disadvantages and risks of participation
  • on the processing of personal data under investigation
  • what is the life cycle of the processing and storage of the collected research material intended to be

The subject must be offered:

  • the information described above in a language they understands in writing or electronically
  • consideration period for making a decision to participate
  • answers to their research questions

In connection with informing the subject, a data protection statement can also be presented to the subject, when personal data is collected. 
When the subject has understood what the research is about, they can give their informed consent to participation and the processing of their personal data. If you wish to continue using or open the material after the thesis, you should ask the research subjects for permission at this stage as well. It is often difficult or even impossible to get a permit afterwards.


The subject has the right to participate voluntarily, but also to refuse to participate without fear of negative consequences. The subject also has the right to suspend their participation or withdraw their consent without a specific reason. Suspension does not prevent the further use of the data collected up to that point in the research.


The subject must know that they are being investigated, especially in situations where the researcher is also in some other role in relation to them, such as a supervisor or a teacher.

Saavutettavuusseloste / Accessibility Statement