I don't think he should be doing independent research. At least, not entirely independent. If your partner wants to get into BDSM and you aren't so sure yourself, you should look into it together, talk about what you want to try and what feels like it would be too much for you. Communication is extremely important in BDSM relationships and everything should be agreed upon. If the SUB is a big masochist, that doesn't mean the DOM is going to be a sadist and forcing yourself to abuse someone else can also be harmful to your own psyche.