What are the key rules regarding confidentiality that should be followed during an action research project according to Barnsley?

Key rules for confidentiality in action research include protecting informants' identities by using codes, discussing confidentiality seriously within the group, and ensuring that only the project's goals and objectives are discussed outside the research group. Additionally, any identifying information should be removed or altered in reports, and a secure method for storing informant data should be established.

Confidentiality in action research is crucial to respect informants and ensure the integrity of the research process. Barnsley emphasizes that groups should develop their own rules for maintaining confidentiality. This includes using codes to protect informants' identities and discussing confidentiality measures seriously within the group. Only the research goals and objectives should be discussed outside the research group. Identifying information, such as names or places, should be altered or removed in reports, especially in small communities where individuals are easily identifiable. A secure method for storing informant data, such as a locked drawer or filing cabinet, should be used. Finally, the methodology section of the final report should describe the confidentiality measures taken during the research.