Research Ethics in Community Settings

Delve into the ethical considerations and best practices for conducting research in community settings.

Course Description:

This course provides an overview of community-based research ethics in community settings. In this course, participants will delve into the ethical considerations and best practices for conducting research in community settings, drawing on the principles and frameworks of the Community Research Ethics Office (CREO). Explore fundamental research ethics principles such as respect for stakeholders’ rights, informed consent, confidentiality, justice, and beneficence, and learn to navigate ethical dilemmas in community-based research. Potential topics include but are not limited to ethical frameworks for community research, designing ethical research proposals, issues of risk and mutual benefit, addressing conflicts of interest. and power dynamics. Through applied examples, students will also have the opportunity to brainstorm and grapple with unique ethical issues that apply across various communities, settings, and contexts. Ideal for students, researchers, and practitioners in non-profits, public health, and social services, this course prepares you to conduct responsible and impactful community research.

Course Objectives:

After successful completion of this course, participants should have

1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of CREO, TriCouncil (TCPS 2), and OCAP policies and principles.

2. Understand the considerations and strategies for ethical reflection and practice throughout the four phases of CBR (e.g. relationship development, ongoing accountability beyond data collection, quality, minimization of harm, maximization of value, knowledge mobilization).

3. Practice collaboratively grappling with ethical issues and troubleshooting dilemmas.

Delivery Method: Online (Synchronous) on Zoom

Instructors: Lisa Schincariol McMurtry and other (TBD)

Course Length: 14 hours

Course Sessions Dates and Time:

Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM ET

Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM ET

Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM ET

Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM ET

Course Costs:

• Each course: $695
• Cost for Basic Community-based Research Certificate: is $2,780 (4 courses x $695)
• Cost for Advanced Community-based Research Certificate: is $5,560 (8 courses x $695)
• As a charitable organization, CCBR is HST (tax) exempt
• A $50 discount is available when course cost paid four weeks in advance. Please ensure you use the [earlybird] code when registering to receive the discount.
• Bursary: Up to 3 bursary spots available per course (see details here)
• Bulk registration rates available (see details here)
• Students from any institution save 10%. Email general@communitybasedresearch.ca from your university email address with a picture of your student card to access the discount code

How to Register:

To begin registration, first enter the buyer's information. Once completed, click "Register", and you'll then be able to add the details for the participant.

Cancellation and Refund Policy:

• A full refund (minus a $50 administration fee) will be issued for cancellations made at least two weeks before the first class.
• A 70% refund will be provided for cancellations made up to 2 days before the first class. ​
• No refunds will be issued for cancellations or no-shows made on or after the first class.