Are projects involving oral histories subject to review by the IRB?
Yes. Oral History describes a technique whereby a researcher conducts taped interviews with participants in regard to particular historical events or periods. Often, the researcher may desire to make the tapes available to the public at a specified future time in order to provide historical insight. Oral histories may convey a historical recollection of the character of a society of an institution rather that the participant’s subjective perceptions. Audio or videotaped oral histories are eligible for the Expedited or Full Board level of review, depending on the nature of the project. In particular, the IRB will review whether the conditions of use or publication of the taping/recording are clearly understood by the participant, and whether adequate means have been provided for the protection of the privacy of any third parties who may be named in the taping/recording.
