The next section of the IRB application that we will explore
is Data Integrity and Confidentiality, q. 20-30.
q. 20a asks in what format you will obtain and store the
data. Presumably it will be paper, electronic (on a computer), or audio.
q. 20b asks where you will store the data. I recommend a
locked file cabinet for paper and a password protected flash (or thumb) drive
for electronic (this protects it from outside hackers or if the flash drive got into the wrong hands).
q. 21 describes what security precautions will be taken,
such as locked cabinets, password protection, etc. Keep in mind that if the
data is out of your immediate possession it must be secured from other people.
q. 22 asks you to describe the checks that are in place to
ensure data accuracy. Some common methods are to have another person double
check any data entry or coding (you will need a confidentiality agreement from
them), double checking all downloads from outside sites (such as survey
monkey).
q. 23 asks you to explain how you will dispose of the data.
All data should be destroyed in 5 yrs (minimum, although APA recommends 7 yrs).
Shredding paper copies and erasing or destroying flash drives are appropriate
responses.
q. 24 asks you to think through a plan if any adverse events
occur (e.g., breach of confidentiality). Some suggestions are stopping the
study, correct issues, and contacting your chair and IRB.
q. 25 is where you indicate if your data will be
confidential (only you know who participates) or anonymous (no one knows who
participates).
q. 26 asks if you will retain a link between the study code
numbers and who participants are, indicate your choice and why.
q. 27 identifies whether only you will have the identifier
or anyone else will (tip – don’t let anyone else have access to it).
q. 28 asks you to explain how you will recruit participants-
again, keep some distance from them if at all possible by using flyers or ads.
q. 29 asks you to list anyone who will have access to the
data- it should be only you. Anyone else will need a confidentiality agreement
and you will need to explain why this necessary.
q. 30 has you indicate if you have confidentiality
agreements (from q. 29)
q. 31 asks you to identify state or national laws that apply
in your study. Some possible ones are laws that require identification of
possible child or elder abuse; identification of illegal behavior or if someone
is a danger to themselves or others. If none applies, it is ok to state that
you have reviewed your state laws and none are relevant to the current study.
Next time we will continue examining the IRB application,
with q. 32-33. Do you have an issue or a question that you would like me to
discuss in a future post? Would you like
to be a guest writer? Send me your ideas! leann.stadtlander@waldenu.edu
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