EECERA ethical code for early childhood researchers

Abstract

This issue of the journal will include the EECERA Ethical Code which has been formulated by the EECERA Ethical Sub-committee; Chris Pascal, Tony Bertram, Julia Formosinho, Colette Gray and Margy Whalley.

The EECERA ethical code is intended as a guiding framework for all those involved in early childhood research and the publication and dissemination of its results. The ethical principles and guidelines have been developed by a working group of EECERA Trustees through a collaborative process with, amongst others, the involvement of the Coordinating Editor of the International Journal of Early Years Education, and also with due respect and full acknowledgement of existing ethical guidelines including those developed by: The British Educational Research Association; The Scottish Educational Research Association; The American Educational Research Association.

We hope that it will support early childhood researchers in their research design decisions and ensure that research is conducted which safeguards the well-being of all involved, particularly the very young and vulnerable, and also generates the highest standards of scholarship and research practice.

The EECERA Ethical Code sets out the expectations of ethical conduct expected of early childhood researchers. It is intended that all research conducted by EECERA members, or published and disseminated through EECERA platforms, including its journal, books and conference, will be evaluated according to its adherence to this code.

Keywords:

• ethical guidance
• ethical principles
• ethical code
• research practice
• publication
• guidelines