Research ethics encompasses the principles and guidelines that govern the responsible conduct of a research project. When conducting research with and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, research ethics ensures that the rights of the participants are respected and that their cultural values, beliefs, and traditions are honoured.

This course promotes the respect of the core ethical values of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in research settings. It aims to give researchers a deeper understanding of the importance and implications of ethical research as well as the keys to apply the research ethics principles to their own research projects.

This course draws upon material from Lowitja Institute’s accredited course, the Certificate IV in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Theory and Practice. It is designed to be completed as a self-paced, introductory online course. It does not replace the learning that forms part of the Certificate IV.

Contributing authors: Dr Kim O’Donnell and Ms Kathleen Stacey