The desire to abolish the gap between research theory and classroom practice has sparked an increasing interest in field-based research among science educators. Although most researchers are aware of the standard meanings of informed consent and confidentiality, and there are some codes of ethical principles published by such groups as the American Psychological Association, these codes provide little help with the problems that may arise in field work. Traditional approaches to ethics in research, focusing on the rights of subjects versus the benefits of the research, were written to serve traditional research methods and are inadequate for addressing the dilemmas of field-based research. This paper discusses the relationship between ethics and methodology, commonly used procedures and contractual obligations of social scientists. An approach to ethics that focuses on particular human relationships rather than general principles is suggested. Stressed is the notion that researchers should consider their commitment to the support of science educators and learners when making decisions concerning what to research. (CW)