Office of Institutional Effectiveness
Institutional Review Board
Goodwin University believes all researchers have an ethical and professional responsibility to protect human subjects from harm. The Institutional Review Board (IRB) reviews all research that involves human subjects that is conducted at the University or by faculty, staff, or students under the auspices of the University. The IRB looks for written assurances that the research plan protects the rights and welfare of the human subjects involved. The IRB has the authority to approve, require modifications, or disapprove all research activities that fall within its jurisdiction. IRB approval must be obtained prior to data collection.
Characteristics that trigger IRB review include any research activity that:
- Collects data systematically
- Involves human subjects who are identifiable, or
- Is collected with the intention of contributing to common knowledge (i.e., shared publically outside the institution through presentation or publication).
Some research activity may be exempt from review, and this determination is made by the IRB, not the researcher. When in doubt, research proposals should be submitted to the IRB.
The following activities are generally exempt from IRB review, but must still be approved:
- Classroom activities that teach research methodologies or simulate research activities
- Activities conducted to improve the quality of teaching in a particular classroom
- Activities required for quality assessment or quality improvement, including those designed for internal, institutional evaluation or improvement
If you wish to submit a proposal for review, complete the submittal form and consent form. Submit these items to IRB@goodwin.edu.
To submit your proposal to the IRB or for additional information contact: IRB@goodwin.edu
