Assuming an upcoming researcher is given a research job aside his area of specialization what is the implication of accepting the offer? Although the researcher will be able to perform excellently in the study or research activity is it ethically allowed?
For instance I was given a qualitative study to compile in Accounting using content analysis, I practically accepted to do that with the mind that as a researcher I am suppose to be versatile- just hope I did the right thing.
It would, in my opinion, be ethical (in terms of not wasting everybody's time by producing sub-standard work) as long as the research was not too far removed from one's specialisation.
For instance, my field(s) are social research with a focus on problematic substance use; so while I'd prefer to research PSU, I could make a good job of doing general social research about some topic.
But I couldn't move into physics say, without re-training and the inclination to do so.
Hello Peter, thank you for your contributions, much as your answers seems funny to me, I need to say my question is not about me choosing what to do or not but is basically talking about me doing either a write up or a research study that is not in my field of specialization.
For instance I am in social and behavioral science and par adventure I am giving a qualitative research topic on Accounting using content analysis. If I decide to do the work, is it unethical? that is to say should one concentrate only on research topics and studies that is his/her specialty?
Most of us have faced this question as early career researchers. It is not necessary at all to be an expert on the subject being researched, after all research is all about re-search. Whether it is ethical or not, in my opinion, depends on the situation - if it is a related area & you are atleast aware of what it is about & what you are doing, it is not unethical. It broadens your horizons, provides a new learning opportunity & helps you become versatile. But, if you have no idea about the fundamentals of the subject & end up doing sub-standard work or messing up things, it would be better to refrain from taking up such work. An alternative could be to begin studying the new subject area, so that you 'll then have more than one specialization.
Hemlata.
Absolutely agree with Hemlata, above; and with Peter, that researchers "..do stuff.."---with the aim of consolidating, and sometimes furthering knowledge in their field; otherwise, there's no point "..doing stuff..".
I think NO. After 6 months of hard working on any topic, you will be an expert one in that.
I think POSSIBLE Nazanin; but only if the topic is of enough interest to you that you will internalise current knowledge in the field such as to make it your own; particularly in PhD study.
In short: Yes, you should. As long as it interests you.
A good way to grow both as a researcher and person.
Good luck
Roland
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