Developing the ethics of worker-researchers through phronesis

Abstract

Engaging with research methods requires, we argue, not only adherence to ethical codes of conduct, but caring for the researched. Researchers, who are also workers in the same organisation or community where the research will take place, have an additional duty not to violate the dignity of the researched, and that is the ethic of care. We discuss how this concern can be progressed through a research methods course that uses reflective diary writing as a way for researchers to reflect and articulate the complexities of their approach to ethical considerations in their research. We conclude that although reflection does not necessarily lead to action, reflective diaries are useful in capturing a period of personal transition. This is demonstrated through the diaries of a student and a competent worker.