Guide :: Exempt Research :: Exempt Categories :: Surveys, Educational Test, Observations
Educational tests, survey procedures, interview procedures, observation of public behavior
In most cases, studies that use the above instruments or procedures to collect data are considered “minimal risk” studies. The main factor for reducing risk in the studies is that the data are anonymous, thus reducing the most common possibility for harm. The regulations list the following as situations where exemption cannot be granted:
- information obtained is recorded in such a manner that human subjects can be identified, directly or through identifiers linked to the subjects;
and
- any disclosure of the human subjects' responses outside the research could reasonably place the subjects at risk of criminal or civil liability or be damaging to the subjects' financial standing, employability, or reputation.
Another factor that the Board will consider is whether the instruments themselves are risky for a participant. For example, if an interview or survey involves questions that might upset a participant, the Board may decide that the protocol does not qualify for exemption because it is more than “minimal risk.”
For studies involving minors, please note that only educational tests qualify for exemption. Observation of public behavior can be exempt if the researcher does not participate in the activities being observed. However, interviews and surveys of minors require parental consent and minor assent.
Studies that involve elected or appointed public officials or candidates for public office (using the above instruments and/or procedures) can also be considered for exemption if they do not already qualify under the other designations.
Consent is generally not required for studies that involve surveys, etc. Documenting consent via a signed consent form may be the only link between the participant and the data which would thus make the data not anonymous. However, the Board may request that you provide some level of instruction to the participants to inform them about the study. This information, for example, could be provided as part of the instructions for survey, covering topics such as the purpose of the study, how long it will take to complete, and assuring the participant that the data are anonymous. Please see Consent: Exemption for more information.
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Guide :: Exempt Research :: Exempt Categories :: Surveys, Educational Test, Observations |
