What type of IRB review is associated with research that does not collect identifiable information?

The type of IRB review that is associated with research that does not collect identifiable information is exempt review. This type of review applies to studies that involve low-risk activities and typically do not require oversight, particularly when they involve anonymous data or data that cannot be linked back to individuals.

Exempt research often includes educational practices, survey procedures, or taste and food quality evaluations, where the information gathered is not sensitive and individual identities are protected. The assumption here is that the risks to participants are minimal or nonexistent due to the nature of the data collected.

In contrast, expedited review is reserved for research involving greater than minimal risk but still falls into specific categories as defined by the IRB. A full review is necessary for studies involving higher risk or vulnerable populations, where the IRB conducts a thorough evaluation of the study's methodologies and potential impacts on participants. Minimal risk review is not a standard designation for IRB reviews but more a concept indicating that risks are low concerning the study being assessed.

Thus, research that does not gather identifiable information meets the criteria for an exempt review process, which streamlines approval for studies that are unlikely to harm participants.