How to Know which Form to Use
How to Know which Form to Use
The different levels of ethical concern with different research projects have led REC to develop three types of submissions: notification, expedited review and full committee review. The appropriate type of application depends on a combination of risk assessment, the specific population to be researched, and the research methods to be used. Some general guidance and several examples are given with the descriptions of the types of submissions. The researcher, supervisor and research team (as applicable) should carry out an ethical assessment of their project to determine which form should be used. The following link leads to a flowchart to help determine which type of submission should be made.
Flowchart for REC Submissions (pdf)
The research ethics convenor for the researcher's school or centre should be consulted first if there are questions about this assessment. This person should have experience with similar types of research projects. If the appropriate submission type remains unclear, advice can be sought from the REC using email: REC@dcu.ie. The REC application should include a brief justification for final decision reached. The REC review will include an evaluation of this justification and may ask for one of the other types to be used if the ethical assessment is deemed to be inappropriate. In this event, the reasons why resubmissions is being sought will be provided.
Other Submissions
Even if a project has received REC approved, other permissions may be required to obtain access to potential participants or to conduct research on specific premises. This includes permission to contact students, employees, patients, clients, etc. using email lists, giving presentations to groups, etc. Data Protection issues must also be complied with by researchers. It is the researcher’s responsibility to identify the permissions needed, note these in the REC application and obtain them prior to contacting potential participants or initiating research.