Anonymous Surveys

Characteristics of anonymous surveys
  • No individual can be identified in the raw data or through a coded list.
    Care must be taken that no questions yield data that can reasonably be tracked back to an individual, especially small sample sizes.  For example, 87% of the population can be identified using date-of-birth, gender, and zipcode.  This is not of particular concern if the questions are minimal risk.  However, it becomes extremely important in surveys that have highly sensitive questions or those that may generate information about illegal activities.
  • The protocol qualifies for administrative review under Exemption Category 2.
    "Research involving the use of educational tests (cognitive, diagnostic, aptitude, achievement), survey procedures, interview procedures or observation of public behavior, unless: (i) information obtained is recorded in such a manner that human subjects can be identified, directly or through identifiers linked to the subjects; and (ii) any disclosure of the human subjects' responses outside the research could reasonably place the subjects at risk of criminal or civil liability or be damaging to the subjects' financial standing, employability, or reputation."

In the IRB Application Methods and Procedures section, specify how the survey will be administered.  This may include:

  • One-on-one – often used for very short surveys or when dealing with an illiterate population.
  • Paper and pencil.
  • Online - specify survey software to be used.  The college has a contract with Qualtrics which is recommended for use.  There is no cost.  Researchers can create an account at http://oiep.cofc.edu/qualtrics/.  If another system (e.g., SurveyMonkey or Google Docs) is to be used, privacy/confidentiality must be specifically addressed in the Privacy and Confidentiality Section of the IRB application.

In the IRB Application Privacy and Confidentiality section, specify how anonymity will be protected.

  • No personally identifiable data is collected.
  • There is no code number on the survey that can be connected back to a participant’s name either directly or through a coded list.
  • In-person pencil and paper surveys will be collected in an envelope or drop box.
  • Mailed surveys will be returned in a self-addressed envelope that can be stamped or not depending on the project budget.  "Self" address should be entered in the return address section as well as the addressee.  If a follow-up reminder notice or survey is to be sent, there are two options - 1) a paper with some identifier, e.g., code number, that is separate from the questionnaire and returned with the questionnaire, or 2) postcard with identifier to be returned separately (required where there is risk if the participant can be identified).
  • When sensitive data is involved, some online survey systems have an option in some survey systems where the data generated does not have the IP address number (which can potentially identify the computer that was used to submit the survey) or can be programmed to delete the last 3 digits of IP addresses.  You can also delete the IP number or the last 3 digits in your database.
  • If Google docs is used for online surveys, the IRB requires that a statement be added to the consent form: "It is recommended that you complete the survey on a public computer or delete cookies on your personal computer to avoid any tracking by Google."

In the IRB Application Privacy and Confidentiality section, download the Anonymous Survey Consent Template (RTF).

  • Adapt the IRB approved template as necessary.  If the survey questionnaire includes information of a sensitive or illegal nature, explain what will be asked and the privacy/confidentiality procedures for mailed or online surveys.

Created: October 16, 2009