Question 1: Is my project considered to be a research project? “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.” 45CFR46 When the answer is “yes” to all of the following questions, you are conducting research. 2. Will information be used to draw conclusions about a general principle or question? [Note that the conclusions must be directly drawn from the collected information – speculation not directly drawn from the collected information would not be considered generalizable.] 3. Will the information be disseminated beyond the immediate setting in which it was collected (e.g., a school or a laboratory)? In defining research, the Brown University IRB relies on two basic concepts:
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Examples: Activities Likely to Be Defined as “Research” for IRB Purposes. (click link for examples) Activities Likely NOT to Be Defined as “Research” for IRB Purposes. (click link for examples)
Research Protections Office: Location: |