52 - Partnerships in Ethnography: Navigating IRB Processes with Transparency and Engagement

Background:  Ethnographers face unique challenges in IRB approvals due to the ambiguous nature of observing human behavior in natural settings, which may not fit traditional definitions of human subjects research. This study presents a framework to improve compliance and participant protection in ethnographic studies, grounded in the experiences of seasoned ethnographers.

Methods:  Using qualitative interviews, this study examines the intricacies of navigating the IRB process and the ethical dilemmas encountered in the field. It gathers insights into the researchers’ approaches to participant engagement, consent processes, and data handling, particularly in studies involving vulnerable populations. Case studies from these interviews highlight these methods' practical applications and challenges.

Conclusion:  The conceptual analysis underscored four critical areas: (1) IRB protocols that are adaptable and attuned to the unique challenges of ethnographic research, especially when studying illicit or stigmatized activities; (2) flexible consent procedures to favor verbal over written consent can better protect participant identities and minimize potential harm; (3) sensitive data handling methods tailored to research contexts, including using pseudonyms, securely storing data, and selectively sharing information; and (4) participant-centered materials, flexible approaches for the population of interest, and sound data management are crucial for preserving trust between researchers and participants, a cornerstone of ethnographic work.

The study further highlighted the importance of maintaining dynamic dialogues between researchers and IRBs, which can foster more ethically sound research practices. When researchers communicate with IRB staff, they allow for tailoring ethical guidelines to meet the specific needs of different research contexts, thereby enhancing the validity and ethical integrity of studies. Moreover, the conceptual analysis identified a need for specialized IRB training to address the challenges of ethnographic research. Such training would equip IRB members to make informed protocol assessments to uphold the delicate balance between conducting thorough research and ensuring participant safety.

Limitations: The generalizability of these findings is limited by the focus on a specific academic setting and a niche research area. Additionally, relying on insights from a limited number of ethnographers may only partially capture the diversity of ethical challenges across different ethnographic contexts.

Discussion:  This conceptual examination proposes that future theoretical work develop a nuanced understanding of ethical considerations specific to different ethnographic contexts and studies encompassing non-traditional approaches or multimodality measures. It also suggests practical applications in the form of updated training for IRB members and the creation of more dynamic ethical guidelines that can respond effectively to the unique challenges posed by ethnographic research on marginalized or vulnerable communities. By doing so, the field can better protect participants and maintain compliance regulations, while allowing for the rich, in-depth inquiry that is the hallmark of qualitative research.