Human Subjects - General Information

In the Psychology Department there is a great need to have people participate as subjects in research. The Department has a reputation for excellence in research and scholarship, as well as in teaching. Student participation in studies conducted by members of the Department helps create this reputation for excellence. In fact, much of the research that is taught in psychology courses is based on participation of undergraduate students.Typically students participate in research as part of their courses. Most faculty in the Psychology Department believe that it is justified to link research participation to enrollment in psychology courses.

While student provide a valuable service by donating a few hours to research, they are receiving something in return. One kind of return is the knowledge they receive from experience the role of a subject. Students then know directly what it is like to be a subject and come to understand the context in which psychological data are typically gathered. Also, researchers provide feedback to subjects explaining their studies. Students can learn the hypothesis and designs of the studies in which they have participated. Further, many undergraduates continue on to advance work in which they conduct their own studies in laboratory or special problems courses. Having prior experience as subjects helps them design their own studies

All faculty and students who desire to do research with human subjects must have this research approved by the University IRB and must comply with department procedures concerning Human Subject research. If you are interested in submitting a proposal for research on Human Subjects refer to the Researcher's section of this website or contact  the Human Subjects Administrator, (e-mail) or 545-2383

All personnel involved with Human Subject Research must complete the IRB Human Subjects Training Module. This on-line training must be completed by all research personnel before a study protocol is submitted on E-protocol.