3. Performing the task – ensuring freedom of research

Beneath you as a researcher can get answers to questions about performing the task – ensuring freedom of research.

Freedom of research means that, as a researcher, you have the freedom to choose a research topic, define research issues, choose materials and methods to find the answers, and to present and discuss results and reasoning in public. As a matter of course, as mentioned under section 1, a contract restricts your freedom of research in relation to choosing a research topic, but it does not rerestrict your freedom to define issues, choose materials and methods, and present results. If, as a researcher, you are not able to vouch for these aspects, you should not engage in the project.

Can an external party decide how to conduct the project?

(copy 1)

No, you have freedom of research, so you decide how to conduct the project. The external party can make suggestions, provided you have the final word, and you can vouch for your decision as a researcher.

Who can decide which research methods to use?

(copy 2)

Only you as a researcher can decide which methods you want to use. You are welcome to accept suggestions for methods from the external party, but you as a researcher have the absolute final say in deciding on the method. You must be able to vouch for the choice of method.

Who can decide that some data should be omitted?

(copy 3)

Only you as a researcher can decide, and then only by describing what data you have omitted and why.