Use of Human Subjects in Research  

Federalwide Assurance  

Exempt Review Categories

1. Research conducted in established educational settings, involving normal educational practices
   
   
2. Research involving educational tests
   or
   surveys, interviews, or observations of public behaviour
   
   UNLESS
   
   1. information is recorded in such a manner that the subject can be readily identified (either directly or indirectly) AND
   2. subjects' responses could place them at risk (e.g., criminal or civil liability, financial standing, employability or reputation).
   
   
   
3. Research involving educational tests, surveys, interviews, or observations of public behaviour, if:
   
   1. subjects are elected or appointed public officials or candidates for public office, or
   2. federal statutes require confidentiality of identifiable information to be identified permanently.
   
   
   
4. Research involving the collection or study of existing data, documents, records, pathological or diagnostic specimens. Sources must either be PUBLICLY AVAILABLE or information must be recorded IN SUCH A WAY THAT THE SUBJECT CANNOT BE IDENTIFIED (either directly or indirectly).
   
   
5. Research conducted by or subject to the approval of Federal Department or Agency Head.
   
   
6. Taste and food quality evaluations involving wholesome/safe foods.
   
   

Determining whether a regular or exempt review is needed can be complex. The most common examples at Stanford are described on the next slide.