MRS publishes neurodiversity and metaverse guidance

As part of the MRS essential safeguards series for best practice in market and social research, the neurodiversity guidance aims to help research practitioners consider the needs of neurodiverse individuals when conducting their professional activities. 

The guidance relates to the clause within the MRS code of conduct which states: ‘Members must take all reasonable precautions to ensure that participants are not harmed or adversely affected by their professional activities and ensure that there are measures in place to guard against potential harm.’

Included in the guidance is information on: designing inclusive research sessions; removing barriers to participation; and communication.

MRS has also produced a best practice guide for the metaverse with the aim of helping practitioners to act legally and ethically in collecting data in the space, which could include virtual focus groups and product testing. 

The guide defines the metaverse as ‘a virtual reality network in which anyone can join and collaborate with others’. It covers ethical design considerations (including relating to data collection with children) and data protection considerations for researchers using the metaverse.

The metaverse guide states that practitioners must inform participants at the recruitment stage when metaverse and associated technologies (avatars, virtual or augmented reality environments) are being used.

Additionally, the use of anonymous avatars means there is the potential for inappropriate behaviour; the guide states that practitioners must take precautions to ensure that participants are not harmed or adversely affected by taking part in a data collection activity and ensure that there are measures in place to guard against potential harm.