The Importance of Research Ethics in the Non-Profit Sector
Introduction Many non-profit organizations work with vulnerable and at-risk populations, such as people with disabilities, racialized, unemployed, or living in poverty. Research is conducted to better understand the circumstances faced by these vulnerable people, while assessing the impact of non-profit organization’s programming on improving their outcomes. Drawing conclusions from data can help leadership better understand an individual’s experiences and what programming can be successful at improving their life circumstances. Much of the research conducted in the non-profit sector is qualitative, meaning that researchers ask questions in an interview or focus groups style to better understand the lived experiences an individual or group. Surveys can also be used to measure data in