IJECE Published Articles

Abstract This study examined how organizational ethics frameworks advance responsible research practices and institutional accountability in higher education. It focused on the ethical systems, governance structures, and institutional cultures that shape research integrity in academic institutions. The study used a systematic literature review design guided by the PRISMA framework. Scholarly articles, books, and policy reports published between 2000 and 2025 were reviewed. After screening and eligibility assessment, 64 studies were included in the final synthesis. The selected literature was analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that research misconduct and questionable research practices remain persistent concerns in academic settings. These practices include selective reporting, weak data management, authorship concerns, and the manipulation of research processes. The review further showed that ethical risks are not caused only by individual behavior. They are also shaped by institutional pressures, publication demands, funding competition, weak monitoring systems, and fragmented governance structures. Results also indicated that organizational ethics frameworks are more effective when ethical leadership, institutional culture, ethics training, compliance systems, and transparent accountability mechanisms are integrated. The study proposed the Integrated Organizational Ethics–Research Integrity Model as a conceptual guide for strengthening responsible research in higher education. The study concluded that academic institutions need ethics systems that move beyond procedural compliance. A more integrated and culture-based approach is needed to promote research integrity, institutional trust, and socially responsible knowledge production.