Launching an open-access Qualtrics survey

Overview

This article outlines the ethical and professional responsibilities of all survey researchers at WSU: students, faculty, and staff. It applies to anyone who uses Qualtrics to gather survey data from any population residing either on or off campus.

The Use of Human Subjects in Research

All surveys, no matter how small or specific, are subject to WSU Regulation 3.7 Policies and Procedures for the Use of Human Subjects in Research. The regulations define research as, “a systematic investigation, including research development, testing, and evaluation, designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge” and a human subject as, “a living individual about whom an investigator (whether professional or student) conducting research obtains (1) data through intervention or interaction with the individual, or (2) identifiable private information.” Questions as to whether or not your survey constitutes human subjects research may be directed to the Human Protections Administrator, Bill Ayers (Maxwell Hall 161, 507-457-5519, bayers@winona.edu), or any faculty member of the Institutional Review Board (IRB). All faculty, students and staff conducting research involving human participants are required to submit a Protocol Request for WSU IRB Approval for review by the IRB prior to initiation of any such research. As of January 1, 2011, all protocol requests must be submitted through IRBNet.