The first thing to look at when planning an experiment is the reason for doing so. Why do you need people? Answering this question usually opens up avenues of thought for why the world needs your research. This is exactly what I did. By collecting motion capture data of individuals performing ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) such as drinking from a cup, I would be able to design software to compare this data to ideal movements, as well as capture from similar devices. It is quite easy to get ahead of oneself here, as you can immediately look at the final product and want to implement it immediately (for Freud lovers - a bit of instant gratification). The end goal is to develop home rehabilitation systems that allow stroke patients or indeed any other sufferer of neurological motor impairment to fine-tune their movements back to an independent living standard. My goal is to see what devices and software work best for this, as well as if they're compatible, but a stretch goal could be to try and classify any movement captured.
Step 1: Consent
Consent for research is incredibly important, We want to avoid deceit and similar experimental sins. Luckily, my research allows for informed consent, as there won't be any individual or personal data collection, nor are we conducting covert observations. Just because it is easy, however, does not mean it is hard to get wrong...
Step 2: Data
I mentioned it could go wrong...here is where the going wrong bit happens. A data management plan is put in place to outline what we do with our research data. Strict naming conventions, file locations and sharing privileges were vital parts of this 7-page document. Getting this wrong could lead to missing data, multiple versions of one file or a knock on the lab door from the ethics council. However, as tedious as it may seem, It is a valuable experience nonetheless.
Step 3: Information
Participants want to know what is going to happen before, during and after the experiment. As aforementioned, it's important to think about why you need people. Not only from a self-reflective standpoint but a literal one too. You need to answer the question. Your participants want to know. Will they be paid (afraid not), will their data be destroyed after a certain period of time? (absolutely), what is the motive of the research? (bettering stroke rehabilitation engagement), will there be tea?(yes but it's pretend).
Step 4: Participant Withdrawal
Participants have the right to withdraw themselves and indeed their data from your experiment and it is imperative that you clearly state how this will be conducted. A Withdrawal clause was a fun experience, as odd as it may seem, You get to think about scenarios that don't cross your mind until you research about them. Whether that is researcher-participant relationships, monetary gain or even post-research data destruction.
To conclude, ethics is often seen as a bit of a bore, but it is as important as the research outcome. I learnt a lot from writing my own in-depth application and I feel to be a step ahead of the game for future research endeavours.
Tune in next week for giant flowcharts, robot hands and computer snakes!
Arron J Thompson