Behavioral scientists utilize mobile imaging, pervasive sensing, social media, and location tracking (MISST) technologies to observe and intervene with research participants in their natural environment. With the variety of sensor-embedded wearables, collecting data about human behavior is now much easier and likely more accurate. Since pervasive sensing technologies can provide real-time data in context, researchers can customize interventions tailored to the individual; for example, study participants could receive a reminder as they pass by their gym or a local park if they haven’t yet met their physical activity goal for that day. Alternatively, they could receive encouragement to make healthy choices in the grocery store, based on GPS data streamed from their phone. However, despite the exciting potential for benefits, MISST technologies introduce new ethical challenges to consider. Read more

PRIM&R is pleased to welcome Patricia Furlong, as one of the keynote speakers at the upcoming 2016 Advancing Ethical Research Conference to be hosted in Anaheim November 13-16, 2015. Furlong will speak on November 15 with an address titled, “SUBJECTS” Matter: Burden of Participation for Children in Clinical Trials. Read more