The Institutionalization of Research Ethics and Integrity Education in American Universities: Major changes and their drivers since the 1980s

Abstract

Promoting research ethics and integrity education attracts worldwide attention in response to research misconduct cases. However, such efforts vary greatly between countries, and Japan, which is behind in its efforts, may benefit from learning from an experienced country. This article reviewed the institutionalization process of instruction in the responsible conduct of research (RCR) in American universities since the 1980s by analyzing related literature. It then examined how the view of RCR education changed over time, and what factors drove those changes. The findings demonstrated that the institutionalization process of RCR instruction was one in which reform paths sought to integrate RCR instruction into everyday activities in universities. Recommendations by the Academies and some scientists' efforts influenced the direction of reform by infusing the true meaning of RCR into instruction with a strong compliance character. Ultimately, the reform aims to transform the entire research environment, including deeply embedded goals and values.