Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of training workshops on human subject research ethics and plagiarism among postgraduate students.
Methodology: This quasi-experimental pretest-post-test study was conducted at Islamic Medical and Dental College, Riphah International University, from June 2023 to December 2024 using two validated questionnaires. It included 36 M. Phil students. Data were analysed using SPSS 23, employing paired t-tests and chi-square tests, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: Of the 36 participants, 28 (77.8%) were female and 8 (22.2%) were male. Knowledge (pre/post: 7.72±2.36/12.33±1.64; p<0.001) and attitude scores (pre/post: 22.33±3.59/20.33±4.39; p=0.006) improved. Ethics Review Committee as a hurdle, and opposition to enrolling pregnant women was seen in 33% and 22.2%, respectively, post-workshop. A significant reduction in negative attitude scores (pre/post: 20.25±5.05/15.9±5.41; p<0.001) indicated less acceptance of plagiarism. Positive attitudes to avoid plagiarism (pre/post: 6.40±3.54/34.6±3.05; p=0.143) showed an encouraging trend. The subject norm scores (pre/post: 30.90±5.77/28.5±4.53; p=0.026) reflected a better understanding of how peers and institutions view plagiarism.
Conclusion: Research ethics training should place greater emphasis on the role of the ERC and vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women. The workshop resulted in reduced tolerance for plagiarism and improved understanding; however, longitudinal studies are recommended to evaluate sustained behavioural changes in ethical research practices.

Key words: Academic misconduct, autonomy, confidentiality, ethical review board, informed consent.