The Narrative Approach as a Learning Strategy in the Formation of Novice Researchers

Abstract

Novice researchers must be trained to be ethical practitioners. This means more than just knowing how to gain ethics approval and being familiar with the codes of ethics. Rather, researchers need to develop their ethical awareness, perception, and judgment, and their capabilities to reflect and act when actually in the field, which we refer to as “situated research ethics.” We employ the concept of “formation” as a useful pedagogical frame accentuating the importance of integrating knowledge, research skills, and ethical capabilities in research practice. We suggest that a narrative approach is consistent with formation, and is useful in research ethics training. This approach uses storytelling and engaging with stories to enable the development of ethical know-how in research. We conclude the article by focusing on the benefits and limitations of this approach.