Ethics and Deontology

Module Description

Ethics and Deontology is a transversal module introducing Master’s students to ethical principles,

professional responsibilities and academic integrity in higher education and scientific research. It

addresses academic freedom, scientific truth, fairness, objectivity, the rights and obligations of

researchers, and the prevention of plagiarism. Complementary lectures examine publication ethics,

academic mentorship and the responsible use of artificial intelligence.

Module Objective

Students develop an understanding of university ethics and research deontology, enabling them to

situate themselves responsibly within the research community and uphold scientific integrity.

Prerequisite Knowledge

The module complements and enriches knowledge acquired in Research Methodology, particularly

academic writing and research practice.

Intended Learning Outcomes

• Distinguish ethics, morality and deontology in academic contexts.

• Explain academic freedom, professional responsibility and competence.

• Recognize the importance of scientific truth, fairness and objectivity.

• Identify the rights and obligations of researchers.

• Recognize and prevent plagiarism and other forms of academic misconduct.

• Apply ethical principles to teaching, supervision, research and AI-assisted academic work.

Course Content and Proposed Lecture Sequence

01 Introduction to Ethics and Deontology

02 Academic Freedom

03 Responsibility and Professional Competence

04 The Requirement of Scientific Truth

05 Equity and Objectivity

06 Rights of Researchers

07 Obligations of Researchers

08 Plagiarism and Academic Integrity

09 Codes of Ethics in Academia and Research

10 Ethics of Teaching and Academic Mentorship

11 The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Ethics and Deontology

Teaching and Learning Methods

Explanatory lectures, guided discussions, case studies, practical exercises, ethical dilemma analysis

and collaborative activities.

Assessment

Assessment follows the department’s approved regulations. Depending on institutional requirements,

activities may include written assignments, case analyses and classroom participation.

Expected Competencies

Ethical awareness, responsible academic conduct, respect for scientific truth, critical judgment and

commitment to research integrity.