Ethics & Safety Amid Uncertainty - 12/7

 
We are writing as Co-Chairs of the Research Compliance & Safety Committee to announce the launch of the Ethics & Safety Amid Uncertainty Research-Related Training Modules. The training modules are one part of the multi-step process for returning to in-person research engagement, and they are now available through Canvas (UNI login required). 
 
If you are a researcher who plans to resume in-person data collection, you are required to complete these training modules. In no case should in-person human subjects research begin without express approval from Teachers College (TC) Institutional Review Board (IRB).

The Ethics & Safety Amid Uncertainty training module requirement is in addition to the “TC COVID-19 Health and Safety” training required for all personnel. 
 
The average completion time for the Ethics & Safety Amid Uncertainty training modules is approximately 2 hours, depending on reading speed. The modules are self-paced and do not have to be completed all in one session. If you are unable to access any of the resources that are part of these training modules, please contact OASID via email.
 
We have designed these modules to provide a set of resources that you can call on as needed. You will have access to the content on Canvas even after your initial read-through of the modules.
 
We hope you find the Ethics & Safety Amid Uncertainty Research-Related Training modules to be useful as we take steps towards the cautious resumption of in-person research activities.
 
A few reminders:

• Due to COVID-19 quarantine, all in-person study activities with human subjects are suspended. Following guidance from New York State and Teachers College Officials, the Institutional Review Board will announce when in-person research can resume and what steps to take at that time. 
• We have a phased approach for in-person research, and we are currently at PHASE 2 of the research ramp-up process. 
• We do not have a firm date of when in-person research can fully resume. We are monitoring the situation, consulting with experts, and reviewing IRB protocols on a case-by-case basis.
• Please consult the IRB website for more information about protocol modifications in response to COVID-19; and please consult the TC Preparedness Website for more information about the gradual resumption of campus life. 

We remain grateful for your flexibility and patience, and wish you all continued health, safety, and productivity. Warm wishes for a restful holiday season!