Keywords: Ethics, Data Privacy, Social Networks, Undergraduate Education
Social network analysis is a rapidly growing area of statistical and social science research. The complex structures and dependencies inherent in social network data offer rich opportunities for exploration and inquiry for advanced undergraduate students. The collection and analysis of social network data poses unique challenges for issues including data privacy and informed consent. In this paper, we will discuss how the ethical tenets of autonomy, beneficence, nonmalfeasance, and justice were incorporated in a seminar-style undergraduate social network analysis course.