Integrating technology in social science research: emerging trends and ethical considerations

The paper is a result of a complementary advanced publication workshop accompanying the curriculum course exercises for PhD students, on the role of ICT in the research work of a scientist. This article examines the impact of digital technologies on social research, focusing on social media, open science, and generative artificial intelligence (GenAI). It discusses the benefits and challenges of recruiting research participants through social media, open science practices, and the application of GenAI in academic research. It also presents ethical and methodological aspects of these technologies, emphasizing the need to update ethical guidelines. The article concludes with recommendations for the integration of digital technologies in research, with an emphasis on developing technological competences and maintaining scientific standards.