Institutional Review Board (IRB)
Definition
A committee that reviews research proposals to ensure ethical standards are met.
Example
The Institutional Review Board (IRB) reviews research proposed by a research who wants to determine the impact of isolation on cognitive ability. The procedures involve exposing participants to extended periods of isolation. The review board rejects the proposal and explains to the researcher that they need to find a means of conducting the test that does not have the same potential for psychological harm.
Why It Matters
The IRB plays a critical role in keeping research ethical and safe. It acts as a checkpoint to make sure studies don’t put people at unnecessary risk. Even when researchers have good intentions, it’s important to have a neutral group double-check the plan — especially when human participants are involved.
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