Class Projects or Assignments
Description
Class projects designed for educational purposes that teach research methods or demonstrate course concepts do not meet the definition of research. The activities take place within the term of the course and are not intended to create new knowledge or contribute to generalizable knowledge. Instructors have an obligation to ensure students involved in course projects meet professional and ethical standards.1
Generally, student research involving human participants falls into one of two categories: research practica, and directed, independent research projects.
Research Practica
Research Practica are class projects designed to provide students an opportunity to practice various research methods such as interview, observation, and survey techniques, as well as data analysis. Such projects typically do not lead to generalizable knowledge and are not undertaken with that goal in mind. Research practica do not require IRB review. Data that are collected during a research practicum project may be used in independent research projects at a future time. In such a case, the IRB should be consulted because an IRB application for use of existing data may be required and there may be limits to its usage.
Although the IRB and OPRS do not review such class projects, we strongly encourage instructors to become fully familiar with each student's project(s), and to discuss it with the student. Professors should discuss with their students matters such as courtesy, and avoidance of unnecessary discomfort or invasion of privacy. Explicit recognition of the existence of the IRB and discussion of its goals and concerns should be an integral part of introducing students to research methodologies.
Directed or Independent Research Projects
Directed or Independent Research Projects are any research conducted by students, graduate or undergraduate, which involves human participants, employs systematic data collection, is intended to contribute to generalizable knowledge, and does not fall under the category of research practicum. These projects could include, but are not limited to, independent undergraduate research projects and honors theses, masters' theses, and dissertations. Student projects in this category must be reviewed and approved by the IRB/OPRS before initiation.
Additional Guidance:
Midwestern State University Guidance
1Bankert, E.A., Gordon, B.G., Hurley, E.A., Shriver, S.P. (2021). Institutional review board: Management and function (3rd ed.). Jones and Bartlett Publishers.