Under IRB exemptions, which activity qualifies for exemption when it involves educational tests, surveys, interviews, or observation?

• A. Clinical trial of a drug
• B. Interviewing teachers about classroom strategies
• C. Research involving the use of educational tests, surveys, interviews or observation
• D. Analysis of organizational policies

Answer: (C)

IRB exemptions include research that uses educational tests, surveys, interviews, or observation because these methods typically involve minimal risk and are common in educational and behavioral research. When the study uses these procedures, and the data collection does not expose participants to more than minimal risk (and privacy is protected), that work can be exempt from full IRB review.

The described activity—research involving the use of educational tests, surveys, interviews, or observation—fits this exemption category, so it is the best answer. A drug clinical trial involves medical intervention and potential risks, so it does not qualify for this exemption. Analyzing organizational policies could be exempt under different circumstances, but it does not specifically center on educational tests, surveys, interviews, or observation.