C.I.T.I. Training and IRB Certification

Study Notes

C.I.T.I. Training and Certification

Initiative developed by the University of Miami.
Offers online courses focused on research regulations and ethical standards.

Institutional Review Board (IRB)

Approves research proposals based on participant risk assessment.
Mandatory for organizations receiving federal funding, conducting research on humans or animals, or utilizing research beyond mere observation.

Member of the IRB

Composed of local professionals, including center professors, staff, and legal advisors.
Members must have no financial or professional stake in the research being reviewed to ensure impartiality.

Proposing Research to the IRB

Must include participant-centered information such as:
- Details on sample population.
- Methods for contacting participants.
- Outline of research procedures and questions.
- Plan for data management.
- Identification of potential risks to participants.

Risk/Benefit Ratio

Focus on minimizing risk and maximizing benefits:
- Risks can range from minimal discomfort to severe consequences (e.g., loss of sight).
- Benefits could include small incentives (e.g., $5) or significant outcomes (e.g., successful phobia treatment).
Evaluation of risks and benefits varies based on time, cultural context, and situational factors.

Risk Categories (Subjective)

Research classified into three categories:
- Exempt research: minimal to no known risk.
- Expedited research: involves minimal risk.
- Full-review research: exceeds minimal risk.

Exempt Research

Characterized by no known risks for participants.
May involve anonymous or publicly available data collection and naturalistic observation.
Requirement for PSY 205 course.

Expedited Research

Involves minimal risk to participants, typically including:
- Collection of physiological or biological data.
- Use of photographs, videos, or audio recordings.
Commonly found in PSY 210 course.

Full-Review Research

Involves research designs that pose greater than minimal risk to participants.

Centre's IRB Eligibility Quiz

Criteria include:
- No involvement with special populations, such as prisoners or children.
- No use of deception in research design.
- No risk of participant identification or stigmatization (e.g., disclosing GPA or body weight).
- No potential for long-term adverse effects beyond normal stress levels.
- Consideration of risks associated with physical interaction (e.g., using body sensors or equipment).

Description

This quiz covers the essentials of C.I.T.I. training and the Institutional Review Board (IRB) processes. It includes information on the approval of research proposals, the roles of IRB members, and guidelines for proposing research. Test your knowledge on ethical standards and participant risk assessments in research.