Thesis subject

MSc thesis topic: Ethics in GIS

If you graduate from Wageningen University you declare by signing the diploma: “By signing the degree, you accept your duty as an academic graduate to execute your future work ethically and with due diligence according to the Netherlands Code of Conduct for Research Integrity”.
What does that mean for MGI graduates? In this thesis topic you will investigate the ethical dimensions and dilemma’s both in theory and practice for GI professionals.

Ethical behaviour is essential for science. Frameworks for ethical behaviour in science are formulated by national institutions, e.g. the Netherlands Code of Conduct for Research Integrity. Derived from these general frameworks domain specific framework are derived. This is also the case for the geo-information domain. For instance, the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), and the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA) have formulated ethical frameworks. Also in the Netherlands in the context of “GeoSamen”, ethics is mentioned as a priority area. Although quite some frameworks are formulated, there is limited knowledge of how these frameworks are applied in practice. The ambition of this thesis topic is to fill this gap.

Relevance to research/projects at GRS or other groups

The topic is relevant for GRS research projects and might also influence the GI education.

Objectives and Research questions

The overall objective of this thesis is to investigate the challenges of applying (GI) ethical frameworks in practice by:

  • Inventory and assessment of existing ethical frameworks for GI;
  • Investigation of the application of these frameworks in practice;
  • Formulation of advice on application in GI-education and applications.

Requirements

  • No specific requirements, but an interest in ethical dilemma’s and knowledge of interview techniques and analysis is a plus.

Literature and information

Theme(s): Empowering & engaging communities