GENERALIZABLE

Dictionary definition

1. to give a general form to
   
2. to derive or induce (a general conception or principle) from particulars; to draw a general conclusion from
   
3. to give general applicability to <generalize a law>; also: to make indefinite

The key elements are conclusions drawn from particulars such that principles are derived.  In this context, the particulars (data derived from regular observations made according to a specified method) are used to draw conclusions about specific premises (often hypotheses) that guide the overall inquiry.  Furthermore, the conclusions drawn are principles which, in the context of research with human participants, should refer to principles about the human condition.  That is, the conclusions should apply to individuals and settings beyond those individuals and settings that were the focus of the inquiry. For conclusions to be generalizable, they must actually be disseminated for research purposes (or be part of a program of investigation that will be disseminated).  A useful definition of dissemination is that the material will be shared beyond the local setting.  Obvious examples of dissemination are publication in a scholarly journal, presentation at a professional conference, or placement of a report in a library.  Examples that are not dissemination include oral presentation to a departmental group in fulfillment of a university requirement, sharing of results with an agency that cooperated in information collection, or internal presentation for utilization and review purposes.
Definition for IRB purposes:  (Contributing to) generalizable knowledge means that (1) conclusions are drawn from particular instances, and (2) the information from the investigation is to be disseminated. 

To be considered research, the generalizable knowledge must be drawn from the results of a systematic investigation of participants.
 

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