Policy Update: Professional Review of Researcher-Developed Instruments

Policy Update - December 19, 2012

Marywood University's Office of Research and Sponsored Programs has updated its policy concerning professional review of researcher-developed instruments, interview questions or other tools.

The Institutional Review Board (IRB) and Exempt Review Committee (ERC) had previously required review of instruments by three and two professionals in the field of study, respectively. Both boards will now require review by one professional only. The professional:

• Must hold a master's degree or higher
• May be a faculty member at Marywood University
• May not serve as a student researcher's sponsor/advisor
• May not serve on a student researcher's thesis or dissertation committee
• May not be part of the research team

The same Professional Review of Researcher Developed Instrument or Interview Questions template must be used for this purpose. This change is effective immediately.