Question

Trinitas is enrolled in an introductory psychology class. Her instructor told the class that everyone had to participate in his memory research project in order to earn a passing grade for the course. The study focused on memory, participation required 15 minutes, all results were confidential, and students would earn "research credit" for participating. Given this scenario, select the statement below that is most appropriate.
A) As long as the results are confidential, this is a good way for students to learn about the process of research.
B) Research participation in a study may be required as part of passing a course.
C) Students have the right to refuse to participate in this study.
D) As long as the research methodology does not include treatment the participation requirement is ethical.

Answer 1

Answer: Students have the right to refuse to participate in this study.

Explanation: From this scenario, the most appropriate statement is that students have the right to refuse to participate in the study. This is because the research project is a personal project by the instructor, which is not a prerequisite for passing the course introductory Psychology. Simply because the instructor made it a part of the course, the students have the right to refuse participation.