, Question 1 (50) You want to investigate how LBQTI+ learners find safe spaces in the
school and plan to interview them using a snowball sampling technique. Discuss
the ethical considerations that will inform your research project. Attend to the
following in your response: · An overview of the issues of LBQTI+ in education (100
words)
In your research project investigating how LGBTQI+ learners find safe spaces in schools,
ethical considerations are paramount. LGBTQI+ students often face unique challenges in
educational environments, ranging from discrimination and bullying to a lack of
representation and support. This marginalization can impact their academic success,
mental health, and overall well-being. Educational institutions play a crucial role in creating
inclusive and safe environments for LGBTQI+ learners. Research shows that positive
school climates and supportive staff significantly improve the educational experience for
these students (Kosciw, Greytak, Zongrone, Clark, & Truong, 2018). However, despite
progress in some areas, many LGBTQI+ students still encounter hostile school climates
(Kosciw et al., 2018), underscoring the need for continued research and advocacy in this
area. Your study, by focusing on how these students find or create safe spaces, could
contribute valuable insights into the effectiveness of current strategies and the need for
further interventions.
· Ethics in research (300 words)
Ethical considerations in research, especially when studying vulnerable groups such as
LGBTQI+ learners, are critical to ensure the integrity of the research and the well-being of
the participants. Firstly, informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle. Participants
must be fully aware of the research's purpose, methods, potential risks, and benefits, and
consent must be given freely without any coercion (Resnik, 2011). In the context of
LGBTQI+ learners, this includes ensuring that participants understand their rights to
confidentiality and anonymity, especially given the potential personal and social risks
associated with their identity (Fisher, 2006).
Confidentiality and anonymity are particularly crucial. Researchers must protect the
identities of LGBTQI+ participants to prevent any negative repercussions due to their
participation in the study. This protection is vital in environments where there may be
stigma or discrimination against LGBTQI+ individuals (Wiles et al., 2008). Therefore, data
should be anonymized, and sensitive information securely stored.
Moreover, researchers must be culturally sensitive and avoid any form of bias or
stereotyping. This sensitivity involves understanding the diverse experiences and identities
within the LGBTQI+ community and respecting each participant's self-identification (Dilley,
2010). Employing a non-judgmental and empathetic approach is essential for building trust
with participants.
The potential impact of the research on participants should also be considered. The
research process should not harm the participants, and adequate support should be
available if discussing their experiences becomes distressing (BPS, 2014). This
consideration is particularly important when discussing sensitive topics like discrimination
or exclusion.
school and plan to interview them using a snowball sampling technique. Discuss
the ethical considerations that will inform your research project. Attend to the
following in your response: · An overview of the issues of LBQTI+ in education (100
words)
In your research project investigating how LGBTQI+ learners find safe spaces in schools,
ethical considerations are paramount. LGBTQI+ students often face unique challenges in
educational environments, ranging from discrimination and bullying to a lack of
representation and support. This marginalization can impact their academic success,
mental health, and overall well-being. Educational institutions play a crucial role in creating
inclusive and safe environments for LGBTQI+ learners. Research shows that positive
school climates and supportive staff significantly improve the educational experience for
these students (Kosciw, Greytak, Zongrone, Clark, & Truong, 2018). However, despite
progress in some areas, many LGBTQI+ students still encounter hostile school climates
(Kosciw et al., 2018), underscoring the need for continued research and advocacy in this
area. Your study, by focusing on how these students find or create safe spaces, could
contribute valuable insights into the effectiveness of current strategies and the need for
further interventions.
· Ethics in research (300 words)
Ethical considerations in research, especially when studying vulnerable groups such as
LGBTQI+ learners, are critical to ensure the integrity of the research and the well-being of
the participants. Firstly, informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle. Participants
must be fully aware of the research's purpose, methods, potential risks, and benefits, and
consent must be given freely without any coercion (Resnik, 2011). In the context of
LGBTQI+ learners, this includes ensuring that participants understand their rights to
confidentiality and anonymity, especially given the potential personal and social risks
associated with their identity (Fisher, 2006).
Confidentiality and anonymity are particularly crucial. Researchers must protect the
identities of LGBTQI+ participants to prevent any negative repercussions due to their
participation in the study. This protection is vital in environments where there may be
stigma or discrimination against LGBTQI+ individuals (Wiles et al., 2008). Therefore, data
should be anonymized, and sensitive information securely stored.
Moreover, researchers must be culturally sensitive and avoid any form of bias or
stereotyping. This sensitivity involves understanding the diverse experiences and identities
within the LGBTQI+ community and respecting each participant's self-identification (Dilley,
2010). Employing a non-judgmental and empathetic approach is essential for building trust
with participants.
The potential impact of the research on participants should also be considered. The
research process should not harm the participants, and adequate support should be
available if discussing their experiences becomes distressing (BPS, 2014). This
consideration is particularly important when discussing sensitive topics like discrimination
or exclusion.
