Exploring academics' experiences of the research ethical clearance process: a case study of a South African university

Abstract

This study explores the experiences of academics regarding the research ethical clearance process at a South African university, aiming to identify key challenges and opportunities for improvement. The rationale behind this investigation stems from the increasing emphasis on ethical considerations in research, alongside the potential barriers that may hinder academics from navigating the clearance process effectively. The research questions focus on understanding the perceptions of academic staff concerning compliance, trust in the ethical review process, and the role of education and community engagement in facilitating ethical research practices. Utilising qualitative research methods approach, this study employed thematic analysis alongside qualitative methods, involving semi-structured interviews with 14 academic staff members from six faculties, all possessing a minimum of five years of experience in research and postgraduate supervision. The thematic analysis revealed several critical themes, including compliance challenges, trust and mistrust in the ethical clearance process, the necessity of education and awareness, and the significance of community engagement in fostering a supportive research environment. The findings indicate that compliance with ethical standards is often perceived as burdensome, leading to frustration among academics. Trust issues emerged, highlighting a perceived disconnect between researchers and the ethical review board, which can undermine the integrity of the clearance process. The study underscores the importance of enhancing education and awareness regarding ethical guidelines, suggesting that targeted training programmes could improve understanding and adherence among researchers. Community engagement also emerged as a vital element, with recommendations for fostering collaborative relationships between the university and local communities to enhance ethical research practices. The implications of this study point toward the necessity for universities to reevaluate their ethical clearance processes, promoting transparency, trust, and collaboration. By addressing the identified challenges and fostering a culture of ethical research, universities can support their academics in conducting research that is not only compliant but also socially responsible. Future research could further explore the perspectives of ethical review board members to gain a comprehensive understanding of the ethical clearance landscape.