Welcome to our article on research ethics training and education programs for Australian professionals. In this section, we will explore the importance of research ethics training, the programs available, and how they can benefit individuals involved in research.
Research ethics training is essential for professionals working in various fields, including healthcare, social sciences, and humanities. It ensures that individuals have the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct research in an ethical and responsible manner.
At PRAXIS HREC, we offer expert training solutions preferred by HRECs across Australia. Our programs are designed to comply with the revised National Statement and are built upon competencies developed by the Harvard Multi-Regional Trials Centre. These programs are regarded as a benchmark for research, ethics, and clinical trial professionals.
Participants in our training courses have highlighted the positive impact they have experienced in their roles. Our comprehensive training includes 10 online units, a 4-hour workshop, and a PRAXIS Statement of Attainment upon completion.
Continue reading to discover the various training and education offers available and how they can enhance your skills and knowledge in research ethics.
Training and Education Offers
The training and education programs offered by PRAXIS HREC are designed to meet Australian and international best practice standards. Our programs are tailored to enhance the skills and knowledge of HREC executives, managers, researchers, and committee members.
At PRAXIS HREC, we believe in the importance of aligning our training with reputable institutions. That’s why our programs incorporate competencies developed by the Harvard Multi-Regional Trials Centre. By leveraging their expertise, we ensure that our training aligns with global standards in research ethics and clinical trials.
Our training and education programs follow a comprehensive approach. Participants engage in online study modules that cover key topics in research ethics. These modules are supplemented by workshops facilitated by research ethics experts. Our workshops provide a platform for interactive learning, enabling participants to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios through activities, case studies, and discussions.
Training and Education Program Highlights:
- Online study modules developed according to best practice standards
- Workshops facilitated by research ethics experts
- Resources such as videos, activities, and case studies
- PRAXIS Statement of Attainment upon successful completion
- 18 CPD points
By completing our training and education programs, participants gain a deeper understanding of research ethics and contribute to maintaining high ethical standards in the field. We believe that investing in training and education is vital to ensure the responsible conduct of research and the protection of research participants.
HREC Essentials
The HREC Essentials program offered by PRAXIS HREC is designed for individuals who are new to research ethics or those looking to upskill and expand their knowledge in this field. This comprehensive training program provides participants with a deeper understanding of the purpose and function of Human Research Ethics Committees (HRECs) and their role within the research ethics landscape.
The program consists of 10 online study units that cover a range of topics, including the ethical principles and guidelines governing research, the responsibilities of HRECs, the review process, and the protection of research participants. Participants can study at their own pace and access the online materials at any time, making it convenient for busy professionals.
Upon successful completion of the online units, participants are required to attend a 4-hour in-person or virtual workshop, where they have the opportunity to engage with expert facilitators and fellow participants. This workshop provides a platform for further learning, discussion, and practical application of the knowledge gained from the online study units.
Benefits of HREC Essentials
- Deepens understanding of research ethics principles and guidelines
- Enhances knowledge of HRECs’ responsibilities and review process
- Provides opportunities for practical application and discussion
- Flexible online study units and workshop options
- PRAXIS Statement of Attainment and 18 CPD points upon completion
By participating in the HREC Essentials program, individuals can gain the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute effectively to the ethical conduct of research. Whether you are new to the field or aiming to upskill, this program offers a valuable learning experience that can help you navigate the complexities of research ethics and further your professional development.
Macquarie University’s Online Ethics Training Module
Macquarie University offers a free online ethics training module specifically designed for social sciences and humanities research. This module provides valuable insights into the ethical considerations that researchers in these fields need to navigate. The training module covers various topics such as informed consent, data protection, and research integrity.
Module Highlights:
- Comprehensive coverage of ethical issues in social sciences and humanities research
- Flexible learning format with the ability to start and stop reading at any point
- A comprehension quiz at the end to reinforce understanding
This online training module is a valuable resource for researchers, students, and ethics committee members in the social sciences and humanities fields. It equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct research ethically and responsibly.
| Module Benefits | Module Contents |
|---|---|
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Macquarie University’s online ethics training module offers a convenient and accessible way to enhance knowledge and understanding of research ethics in the social sciences and humanities. This training is an essential resource for anyone involved in these fields and provides a strong foundation for conducting ethical research.
NHMRC Clinical Trials Elearning Modules
The NHMRC offers interactive elearning modules on clinical trials that provide an overview of the clinical trials environment and approval process in Australia. These modules are highly recommended for all staff involved in clinical research to ensure compliance with national legislation and guidelines.
Module Topics
The NHMRC Clinical Trials Elearning Modules cover a range of topics relevant to research governance and ethics in clinical trials. The modules include:
- The nature and importance of clinical research ethics
- Ethical review processes and requirements
- Research governance and its role in clinical trials
These modules are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the ethical considerations and governance processes that must be followed when conducting clinical trials in Australia. They are free to use and take approximately 45 minutes each, making them a convenient and time-efficient way for research staff to stay updated on best practices in the field.
| Benefits of NHMRC Clinical Trials Elearning Modules | Features |
|---|---|
| Convenience | The modules can be completed online at a time and place that suits the participant. |
| Comprehensive | The modules cover all essential topics related to clinical trials research governance and ethics. |
| Free | The modules are provided free of charge, making them easily accessible to all interested individuals. |
| Time-Efficient | Each module takes approximately 45 minutes to complete, allowing busy research staff to fit them into their schedules. |
By completing the NHMRC Clinical Trials Elearning Modules, research staff can ensure that they have the knowledge and understanding necessary to conduct clinical trials ethically and in accordance with national guidelines. These modules serve as an invaluable resource for ongoing professional development in the field of clinical research.
Research Coordinators Forum
The Research Coordinators Forum is an important event that brings together professionals in the field of research coordination, specifically focusing on the roles of lead sites and coordinating principal investigators in multi-center clinical trials. This forum provides a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, offering valuable insights into the expectations and challenges associated with these crucial roles.
The forum features presentations from experienced professionals who share their expertise and best practices, offering attendees the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the research coordination process. Participants can learn about effective strategies for coordinating multi-center trials, ensuring adherence to protocols, managing timelines, and overcoming logistical challenges.
Through the Research Coordinators Forum, professionals in this field can stay updated on the latest trends and developments, enabling them to enhance their skills and contribute to the success of clinical trials. The forum also facilitates networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with peers, share experiences, and build valuable relationships within the research coordination community.
The Research Coordinators Forum plays a vital role in fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among research coordinators, enabling them to excel in their roles and contribute to the advancement of clinical research.
PRAXIS Australia Ltd
PRAXIS Australia Ltd is a not-for-profit organization that specializes in providing high-quality training courses and education resources for ethics committees, researchers, and other professionals involved in research planning, review, and conduct. With a strong focus on research ethics, PRAXIS Australia aims to ensure that professionals have the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex ethical landscape of research.
PRAXIS Australia offers a range of training opportunities, including short courses, nationally recognized accredited qualifications, and access to tertiary-level learning. These courses are designed to enhance the capabilities of ethics committees and equip researchers with the necessary tools to conduct ethical research. The training provided by PRAXIS Australia is developed in collaboration with leading experts in the field and is regularly updated to reflect the latest developments in research ethics.
Training Courses
PRAXIS Australia’s training courses cover various aspects of research ethics, including ethical review processes, informed consent, data management, and conflict of interest. These courses are delivered by experienced facilitators who provide practical insights and guidance based on their own expertise. The training courses are designed to be interactive and engaging, with a focus on real-world scenarios and case studies to promote active learning.
| Training Course | Duration | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Ethics Committee Essentials | 2 days |
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| Researcher’s Guide to Ethical Conduct | 1 day |
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| Advanced Topics in Research Ethics | 3 days |
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PRAXIS Australia is committed to promoting ethical research practices and ensuring that professionals have the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct research responsibly. By offering comprehensive training courses and education resources, PRAXIS Australia contributes to the development of a robust research ethics framework in Australia.
PRAXIS HREC Self Evaluation Guide
As part of its commitment to promoting research ethics, PRAXIS Australia has developed a comprehensive self-evaluation guide for Human Research Ethics Committees (HRECs). The self-evaluation guide serves as a valuable resource for HRECs to assess their performance and identify areas for improvement.
The PRAXIS HREC Self Evaluation Guide covers a wide range of topics, including the functioning and operations of HRECs, ethical review processes, compliance with the National Statement, and adherence to other relevant guidelines. It provides a structured framework for HRECs to evaluate their procedures, policies, and decisions, ensuring they align with best practices in research ethics.
The self-evaluation guide is designed to be user-friendly and accessible to all kinds of committees involved in research ethics. It offers guidance and prompts for self-assessment, allowing HRECs to reflect on their strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for development. By utilizing the self-evaluation guide, HRECs can enhance their performance, strengthen their ethical oversight, and contribute to the overall improvement of research ethics practices.
Key Features of the PRAXIS HREC Self Evaluation Guide
- Comprehensive coverage of essential topics in research ethics
- Structured framework for evaluating HREC performance
- Prompts and guidance for self-assessment
- Identification of areas for improvement
- Alignment with the National Statement and other relevant guidelines
Overall, the PRAXIS HREC Self Evaluation Guide is a valuable tool for HRECs to evaluate and enhance their ethical oversight. By regularly engaging in self-assessment using this guide, HRECs can contribute to the continuous improvement of research ethics practices and uphold high ethical standards in the conduct of research.
Conclusion
In conclusion, research ethics training and education are vital components in promoting ethical conduct within the research community. PRAXIS HREC offers comprehensive training programs that are highly regarded by professionals in Australia and internationally. These programs, built upon competencies developed by the Harvard Multi-Regional Trials Centre and aligned with NHMRC recommendations, provide a benchmark for research, ethics, and clinical trial professionals.
In addition to PRAXIS HREC, Macquarie University’s online ethics training module and the NHMRC’s elearning modules offer valuable resources for individuals involved in research. These modules cover important ethical issues and provide crucial knowledge on research ethics and governance processes. The Research Coordinators Forum serves as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, specifically focusing on the roles of lead sites and coordinating principal investigators in multi-center clinical trials.
Furthermore, PRAXIS Australia’s self-evaluation guide assists ethics committees in assessing their performance and identifying areas for improvement. This guide ensures compliance with the National Statement and other guidelines, contributing to the overall enhancement of research ethics practices. Continued investment in research ethics training and education is essential to maintain a high standard of ethical conduct in research.