Effective January 22, 2019, CCSNH IRB Review will be required if your research meets one of the following criteria:
- Does the project include 2 or more of the CCSNH campuses? If no, click here for contact information for each institution.
- Does the project constitute research, based on the federal definition?
Research means a systematic investigation, including research development, testing and evaluation, designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge. Activities which meet this definition constitute research for purposes of this policy, whether or not they are conducted or supported under a program which is considered research for other purposes. For example, some demonstration and service programs may include research activities. - Will findings from the project be disseminated outside of the college or system?
- Does the project involve a vulnerable population per 45 CFR 46 Subpart B, C or D ?
- Does the project involve any of the following:
Violation of Privacy: Collection of data concerning at-risk or socially questionable behavior (for example, questions about substance use or sexual activity) is viewed by many individuals as violations of privacy.
Legal Risks: Data concerning illegal behaviors may place individuals at risk of legal action, if (a) names can be linked to particular responses or observations and (b) the research has not received specific legal protection (e.g., by Certificate of Confidentiality).
Psychosocial Stress and Related Risks: Procedures that raise sensitive issues may generate stress for participants. For example, questions about at-risk behaviors may cause students to feel stress related to their self-image or contribute to perceived peer pressure.
Risks to Participants’ Social Relations: Because relevant questions often request information about the behavior, or relations with, family members, peers, or authorities, some procedures may pose a risk to those relations if confidentiality is not adequately safeguarded.
Please note, just because a project takes place as part of a class or you are not intending to publish the results does not preclude it from being considered research. Research is determined based on intent of the study design, not the dissemination of results.
If the proposal includes any of the above, a review is required. Not sure? Click here for more information.