UC Health IRB Guidelines and Research Methodology

UC Health IRB Overview

  • The UC Health Institutional Review Board (IRB) serves as the IRB of record.

  • Colorado State University (CSU) must be informed about decisions made by the UC Health IRB regarding research involving students.

Understanding the Role of the IRB

  • CSU may not conduct its own IRB review for certain research, depending on the specific circumstances of the project.

    • Importance of clear communication regarding this aspect between students and faculty mentors.

Research Methodology Considerations

  • Distinction between types of research methodologies:

    • Interviews

    • Focus groups

    • Clarification on which methodologies are being employed in current projects.

Conducting Literature Reviews and Needs Assessments

  • Students are currently engaged in literature reviews and needs assessments.

  • Importance of interacting with individuals as part of the information-gathering process:

    • Example: The speaker mentions a meeting with a student, Sammy, who inquired about the speaker's professional experiences but did not record or identify the speaker.

Reporting Research Findings

  • The significance of distinguishing between reporting and collecting data:

    • If the research involves reporting information that could lead to identifying individuals, an Institutional Review Board exemption (IOE) may be necessary.

    • Suggestion to discuss matters with faculty mentors when reporting identifiable information.

Principal Investigator Requirements

  • When involving identifiable information in reports, a designated principal investigator is required.

  • Faculty mentors are encouraged to assist in navigating these requirements.

Best Practices in Data Handling

  • Recommendations for handling personal notes during research:

    • Do not include identifiable information (e.g., names) in personal notes.

    • If notes are misplaced, they should not allow for identification of the individuals discussed, emphasizing confidentiality.

Evaluating the Need for IRB Approval

  • Encouragement for students to critically assess whether their research requires IRB approval.

    • In the context of research, students will repeatedly consider the necessity of IRB processes throughout their projects.