Ethical practices in education, research and publication in North America and Asia

Kochar Sahibpreet Singh

Research Scholar,
University Canda West

Abstract

The credibility and honour of academic communities across the world depend on its members
adhering to established ethical standards in all aspects of their work, including classroom
instruction, research, and publishing. This investigation delves into the evolving and nuanced
ethical norms in Asia and North America. Despite sharing a focus on ethical behaviour, the
approaches, procedures, and cultural factors considered by the two fields are distinct.
Institutional review boards (IRBs) and professional organizations in North America (namely the
US and Canada) typically govern ethical standards. Educational and research initiatives place a
premium on openness, informed consent, confidentiality, avoiding conflicts of interest, and the
welfare of participants. Academic writings must comply strictly to guidelines for preventing
plagiarism and guaranteeing appropriate source attribution as part of the peer review process and
editorial board oversight.
Cultural norms, historical circumstances, and legal systems all have a role in shaping ethical
conduct in Asia. While South Korea and Japan closely follow North American ethical standards,
China and India take different methods. Research ethics monitoring in China is heavily impacted
by government regulations, which are often associated with political dynamics. Respect for
authority and social harmony are two Confucian principles that may colour decision-making and,
in turn, impact authorship and academic honesty.
Understanding cultural nuances and contextual factors that influence ethical behaviour in the
fields of education, research, and publishing is crucial, according to this study. Through the
acceptance and appreciation of both our commonalities and disparities, we may collaborate
harmoniously to establish a worldwide society in which integrity, responsibility, and reciprocal
regard serve as the fundamental principles guiding our educational endeavours. The paper
analyzes and compare the ethical norms and behaviours seen in academic settings in North
America and Asia.
Keywords: American Psychological Association (APA), American Educational Research
Association (AERA), Institutional review boards (IRBs)