The use of the internet (e.g. email, social media, mobile devices, web-based surveys) as a medium for research continues to increase.  While it provides many advantages, it can also complicate the process of human subjects protection.  The information below are requirements for the most common type of internet research conducted by CWU researchers.  Contact the Administrator for questions and documentation required for other types of internet research.

Online Survey Research

For research involving data collection via an online survey company (e.g. Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey), the HSRC requires the following:

1. A pdf of the programmed survey as it will be viewed by subjects (including the information and closing screens), and copy of the survey collection settings (options you select when setting up the study).

2. If your study is anonymous, the survey collection settings must indicate 'anonymize responses' or no IP addresses will be collected.  If your study is not anonymous, provide information about the confidentiality of the data in the application and information page of the survey.

3. Review Internet Research Issues to ensure your application materials are complete and include required language in the information page and closing screens of your survey.

NOTE: It is highly recommended that you use Qualtrics which is free to use for CWU faculty, staff and students.

Psychology studies must include debriefing language in the closing screen and, if applicable, provide documentation of the Sona description (as it will be viewed by subjects).

Other Resources

• Internet Survey Security Form (only if NOT using Qualtrics or SurveyMonkey)
• Sample Online Information Page