In the data collection process, when researchers are trying
to obtain information from survey participants, they frequently indicate that
the survey will be conducted anonymously or confidentially. There are distinct differences between the
two terms and the researcher should be clear on the meaning of each, as they
are very important for the protection of the participant. It is also important to remember that a
study, with only one data collection method, cannot be both confidential and
anonymous. Research participants should
be informed beforehand of the type of data collection that will take place. They should also be informed of how long the
data will be stored, where the data will be stored, and how it will be destroyed
after an appropriate amount of time.
When data is collected and held anonymously, it indicates
that there are no identifying values that can link the information to the
participant; not even the researcher could identify a specific participant. Online survey tools are typically conducted
anonymously, however, the researcher needs to be certain the IP address is not
stored. The researcher also needs to
keep in mind that too many identifying demographic variables could hinder the
anonymity of the participants. In an
anonymous study, the researcher needs to indicate how the participants will be
kept anonymous. Be certain to include
that no participants will be identified.
It is also helpful to let the participant know that data will be
analyzed at the group level.
When data is collected and held confidentially, the
researcher can identify the subjects.
One way of identifying the subjects is to assign and identifying number
or code to each participant.
Additionally, any survey that takes place in face to face environment is
automatically labeled as confidential, as the researcher will know who provided
the data. When data is collected
confidentially, the information needs to be kept in a secure environment
because the participants are identifiable.
And similarly to anonymous data collection, it is also helpful to let
the participant know that data will be analyzed at the group level in order to
de-identify participants. Identifying
numbers will not be presented in the results of the analyses.