The starting point for the development of scientific knowledge, scientific infrastructure, and, above all, the credibility of scientific research is respect for ethical standards and principles at all stages of research, from study design to data collection, analysis, sharing of results, and publication.
Scientific integrity is a set of principles and ethical values, deontological obligations, and professional standards that form the basis of responsible and correct conduct and behavior of those who conduct, finance, or evaluate scientific research, as well as the institutions that support and carry it out (Code of Research Integrity and Ethics in Slovakia, 2023).
Academic integrity is a set of values and rules relating to study and education that ensure that study and education are based on the principles of responsibility and honesty. Integrity is related to the ethics and deontology of students and teachers, as well as educational institutions, based on proper study and educational practices. Violations of these principles are investigated by a disciplinary or ethics committee or a similar body established by the institution providing education to students (Code of Research Integrity and Ethics in Slovakia, 2023).
One of the means of preventing unethical practices in scientific research is to open up science in the form of transparent dissemination of results, which also establishes a certain public control mechanism on the part of society as a whole, as well as the scientific community (whether broader or specific). International standards (e.g., the European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity) are a formative element of the entire process and form the basis for the creation of national formal frameworks for scientific integrity.
The ethical rules include principles of publication ethics. In this regard, the library focuses on advising students and young researchers on topics such as how to avoid plagiarism and how to work correctly with information sources.
Sources:
European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity
Code of Research Integrity and Ethics in Slovakia
Code of Ethics for Employees of the Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra (in Slovak)