All research studies proposed by doctoral candidates, university researchers, outside organizations, and others are subject to approval by the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Research Screening Committee. "Research studies" are systematic investigations conducted to describe, assess, examine, or evaluate programs, policies, practices, methods, organizational structures, teaching, learning, human interaction, or other aspects of the school system, through such means of data collection as surveys, focus groups, tests, observations, recordings, checklists, etc.
"Internal" research studies and evaluations, including data collection activities, routinely conducted on behalf of FCPS by staff members carrying out their assigned responsibilities to maintain and improve instructional programs and administrative practices, are EXEMPT from the research screening process.
The following kinds of studies will not be approved: studies designed to meet course requirements at any level, including graduate level research courses; master's degree studies by persons who are not FCPS employees; studies for which no appropriate FCPS administrator has been identified as a sponsor; and studies that divulge sensitive FCPS data, reveal individually identifiable information, or otherwise infringe on the rights or privacy of students, parents, or staff members.
Click here to see a copy of the required application form in Microsoft Word format, or click here for PDF format. To apply, download or print the form, complete it, and send it via e-mail or regular mail to:
Chantal Follett , Ph.D.
Chair, Research Screening Committee
Department of Accountability
Fairfax County Public Schools
7423 Camp Alger Avenue
Falls Church, VA 22042
E-mail Address:Chantal.Follett@fcps.edu
In general, the screening committee weighs the benefits of each proposed study against the burdens it creates for staff or students. Any or all of the following factors may be considered in granting or denying approval: value or relevance of the research topic, questions, and hypotheses to the current needs and interests of FCPS; quality and technical adequacy of the study; feasibility of the study, including amount and kinds of resources requested from the school division and amount and kinds of resources supplied by the applicant; competencies and qualifications of the applicant, including the demonstrated quality of writing and research skills; potential disruption of the instructional program and of administrative responsibilities; potential encroachment on the privacy and legal rights of students, parents, and staff members; support of the FCPS administrator who has agreed to be the sponsor.
For more information, see Policy and Regulation 1475, or call Chantal Follett at 703-208-7766 or e-mail questions to:Chantal.Follett@fcps.edu
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