USM Research Ethics Committee Conducts University-Wide Orientation for Undergraduate Researchers

Kabacan, Cotabato – To reinforce ethical standards in research and ensure compliance among undergraduate students, the University of Southern Mindanao (USM), through its Research Ethics Committee (REC), conducted a university-wide orientation on research ethics from April 4 to 16, 2025.

The series of orientations was attended by College Research Coordinators (CRCs), Department Research Coordinators (DRCs), thesis advisers, and students enrolled in Undergraduate Thesis I (UTI).

Key topics discussed during the sessions included the Elements of Research Ethics, Types of Ethical Reviews, Access to Forms and Procedures for Obtaining Ethics Certification, and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) from student-researchers.

REC members served as resource speakers and facilitated the sessions across different venues on campus to accommodate various colleges. The venues and corresponding colleges were as follows:

• USM Gymnasium: College of Human Ecology and Food Sciences (CHEFS), Institute of Sports, Physical Education and Recreation (ISPEAR), and College of Agriculture (CA) students
• College of Science and Mathematics (CSM) Lobby: CSM students
• College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) Audio-Visual Room: CVM students
• Knowledge, Enterprise, and Productivity Learning Resource Center (KEPLRC): College of Engineering and Information Technology (CEIT) students
• College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) Audio-Visual Room: CASS students
• College of Education (CED) Convention Hall: CED students

The orientation aimed to strengthen the culture of ethical research within the university by equipping students and faculty with the knowledge and tools necessary to uphold ethical standards in conducting research. It also ensured that all undergraduate research activities comply with institutional and national ethical guidelines.

Photos: Research Ethics Committee