Research confidentiality and integrity

Adopted: July 1, 2016
Updated: March 17, 2026

Education Futures LLC conducts research to increase knowledge, inform policy, and support the development of new approaches to learning and human development. Our work includes studies conducted independently and on behalf of academic, non-profit, and government partners.

Human subjects research in our work typically involves surveys, interviews, focus groups, and participatory methods. Most studies involve no more than minimal risk to participants. We design and conduct research in accordance with widely accepted ethical standards for the protection of human subjects.

Principles guiding our research

We adhere to established principles for ethical research practice:

  • Voluntary, informed consent: Participation is always voluntary. Individuals decide whether to participate based on clear information about the study.
  • Respect for persons: Participants are treated as autonomous individuals with the right to make informed decisions.
  • Right to withdraw: Participants may end their participation at any time without penalty.
  • Minimization of risk: Research is designed to avoid physical, psychological, or social harm.
  • Proportionality: The benefits of research should outweigh any potential burden or risk.
  • Transparency: Participants have access to relevant information about the purpose and nature of the research.
  • Privacy and confidentiality: Personal data are protected throughout the research process.

Confidentiality and data handling

Data collected in research are handled in accordance with confidentiality commitments made to participants and, where applicable, partner institutions.

We do not disclose information that links individual identities to specific responses unless explicit consent has been provided. In most cases, identifying and contact information is stored separately from research data and is removed or destroyed after the data collection phase.

Exceptions may include:

  • Longitudinal studies that require follow-up with participants
  • Cases where participants request to be contacted for future research
  • Administrative records required for accounting or compliance that are not linked to research responses

Clients typically receive data that have been separated from personally identifiable information.

Anonymous and confidential data collection

In anonymous studies, no personally identifiable information is collected, and responses cannot be traced back to individuals unless voluntarily provided by the participant.

In confidential studies, identifying information may be collected for research purposes. In such cases, responses are aggregated and reported in a manner that prevents identification of individual participants.

Qualitative research and identity protection

For interviews, focus groups, observational studies, and other qualitative methods, transcripts and notes are de-identified. Names and identifying references are removed or generalized to protect participant identity.

In participatory settings such as World Café or similar formats, photographs may be taken with participant permission. We take care to avoid linking identifiable individuals to specific ideas or statements, and we do not identify individuals by name in such materials.

Data storage and retention

We retain research data only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes of the study, meet contractual obligations, or comply with applicable regulations. When data are no longer required, they are securely deleted or destroyed.

Paper records are stored securely when in use and destroyed using appropriate methods. Where necessary, paper data may be digitized for archival or compliance purposes.

Electronic data are stored in controlled environments with access limited to authorized personnel. Systems may include secured local infrastructure or trusted hosting environments that implement standard protections for data security.

Data security

We use established technical and organizational measures to protect data against unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or loss. These measures include encrypted communication (HTTPS/TLS), access controls, and system-level protections appropriate to the nature of the data.

We use third-party infrastructure providers where necessary to deliver services. These providers are selected based on their ability to meet widely accepted security standards. While we take reasonable steps to ensure data protection, no system can guarantee absolute security.

Training and oversight

Education Futures LLC staff and collaborators are trained in ethical research practices and the protection of human subjects. Principal investigators are expected to have formal training or certification in research ethics.

Research assistants and collaborators operate under supervision and are required to follow established confidentiality and data protection procedures.

Scope and limitations

This policy applies to research conducted directly by Education Futures LLC. Where research is conducted in partnership with other institutions, additional policies or requirements may apply.

This page describes our general practices. Specific studies may include additional procedures or requirements that will be communicated to participants as part of the consent process.

Contact

If you have questions or concerns about research confidentiality or data practices, contact us at [email protected].