Research Review Process
The function of the Research Review Process at Orange Coast College is to ensure the well-being of participants who may volunteer for or participate in research studies or investigative inquiries. The process is conducted by the Research Review Subcommittee which assists researchers and members of the institution:
- Comply with state and federal regulations that may apply to their studies or investigative inquires
- Protect them from potential liability from which they may be exposed
- Protect Orange Coast College from any liability it may be exposed
The Research Review Subcommittee is composed of an institutional researcher, a faculty member, and one additional member from college community. All members of the subcommittee shall have training in applied and theoretical research, understanding the state and federal guidelines protecting human subjects in an educational setting.
Additionally, approval from the subcommittee is separate from administrative approval at the college. Most research projects require both administrative approval from the department or area your research is being conducted through, as well as subcommittee approval. If you are unsure of what type of administrative approval you need, the subcommittee can assist you in determining what additional approvals (if any) are needed.
Please note that the guidelines indicate that approval can take 30-60 days, depending on the type of research project.
OCC Research Process and Guidelines 2023-2024 (PDF)
Tip Sheet: Four Required Criteria for Research Review Consideration at OCC (PDF)
Internal Research Request Application (DOCX)
External Research Request Application (DOCX)
Questions? Please contact Sheri Sterner (ssterner@occ.cccd.edu) or
Alex Villagomez Buus (abuus@cccd.edu) in the Office of Institutional Effectiveness.