Magnitude and Factors Associated with Research Misconduct at Public University in Ethiopia: a Cross-Sectional Survey
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Date
2024-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Background: Research integrity in Ethiopia, essential for ethical scientific research, has been
inadequately addressed, resulting in gaps in combating misconduct like plagiarism and data
falsification. This research systematically assessed the magnitude and factors associated with
research misconduct at a Public University in the country.
Objective: To assess the magnitude, attitudes and factors associated with research misconduct
among researchers at Public University in Ethiopia.
Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January to April
2024. The sample sizes were determined based on each specific objective, resulting in a total of
297 participants, selected via simple random sampling using the lottery method. Due to the
sensitive nature of the study, data collection was carried out using a structured self-administered
questionnaire. The data were then entered into Epi-Data 3.1 and analyzed with SPSS version 27.
Descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage, were used to summarize the data. Chi-
square tests and binary logistic regression were employed to test for associations, with the results
presented in tables.
Result: A total of 244 researchers participated, resulting in 82% response rate. In our study,
37.7% of our participants self-reported committing at least one wrongdoing. Authorship
misconduct was the most common form of self-report misconduct with 47.5%, 95% CI [41.1%,
54.0%] followed by falsification with 38.9%, 95% CI [32.8%, 45.4%]. Regarding attitude
towards responsible conduct of research, 61.1%, 95% CI [54.6%, 67.2%] of participants had a
favorable attitude. Publication pressure was significantly associated with research misconduct
(AOR = 3.180; 95% CI: 1.017, 9.946). Participants above lecturer rank were 64.6% less likely to
participate in plagiarism than those below lecturer rank (AOR = 0.354, 95% CI: 0.194, 0.648).
Conclusion: Research misconduct has profound implications, compromising the validity of
scientific findings and eroding public trust in research. It distorts the evidence base needed for
informed decision-making, potentially leading to harmful policy and clinical practices.
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Keywords
Research misconduct, Responsible Conduct of Research, Questionable Research Practices, Research Integrity