Institutional Review Board

The Institutional Review Board (IRB) is in place to ensure the safety and confidentiality of information for those individuals who participate in research studies. For most research in the field of health care, you are required to have your research preapproved by at least two organizations—Walden University and the health facility with which you will be working.

Understanding the level of review required for your research and why it is vital to be approved prior to beginning your dissertation research will protect you, the University, and the individuals who participate in your research.

Review the “Institutional Review Board (IRB) Frequently Asked Questions” self-paced tutorial included in this week’s Learning Resources, as well as the materials presented at the Institutional Review Board for Ethical Standards in Research website (also included this week’s Learning Resources).

Post 3-4 pages brief description of your dissertation topic. Then, explain the types of consent and precautions you think the Institutional Review Board may require for your research study, and why. Be sure to note how your research design, methods, participants, and type of data might affect the level of institutional review required.