The Research Integrity Policy was approved by Senate and took effect February 1, 2019.
The new Research Integrity Policy underwent a comprehensive review to revise and update the previous version that existed at Sheridan. The purpose of this Policy is to promote the responsible conduct of Research at Sheridan and outline the procedures for addressing allegations of breaches of Research Integrity.
Notable changes to the Policy include:
- More direct alignment with Framework requirements
- Changes in nomenclature
- Removed overlap with other Sheridan policies
- Greater emphasis on principles
- Biohazards no longer an exclusion
- Consolidated list of Principal Investigator responsibilities
- Content reorganized to more closely match layout of other Sheridan policies
- Definitions section added
- Further examples of breaches of research integrity added, e.g. making unfounded allegations of breaches of research integrity
Notable changes to the Procedure include:
- More direct alignment with Framework requirements
- Clarified process and timelines for identifying, investigating and resolving alleged breaches of Research Integrity
- Destruction of files that do not proceed to formal investigation
- Investigation committee has appropriate research knowledge and experience (previously “academics”)
- Clarification that if a breach is not found, the College shall take reasonable steps to repair the reputation of the person named in the allegation.
- Potential for interim measures, e.g. to protect participants, agency funds
- Appeals procedure revised; separate student and non-student processes
The Policy can be accessed here: Research Integrity Policy
The Procedure can be accessed here: Procedure For Addressing Allegations Of Breaches Of Research Integrity
Andrea England and Jaime Ginter would like to extend their gratitude to everyone who provided feedback during the Policy’s development. There was lots of engagement throughout the review process and the Policy is better because of it.
If you have questions about this policy, please contact Andrea England at andrea.england@sheridancollege.ca