Framing the Debate: Ethical Research in the Information Age

Abstract

Qualitative researchers have always been concerned about using ethical practices, but this goal has become more difficult now that we are able to communicate with individuals around the world for social, professional, and educational purposes. The result is that researchers who study electronic communities or describe on-line communications must change their commonly used research tools and adapt their activities to these new environments. This article explores the possibilities of on-line research, frames the discussion of ethical issues by relating it to ethical qualitative practice, and offers suggestions for appropriate ways in which to use these tools. Through investigation and personal experience, this research demonstrates that little has been done thus far and calls for a debate on this topic. The article concludes with a set of guidelines for ethical electronic research.