What important question should the Big State University IRB ask about a study conducted in Chile?

The important question that the Big State University Institutional Review Board (IRB) should ask about a study conducted in Chile pertains to the involvement of local collaborators at the research site. This is crucial because having local collaborators can ensure that the study is culturally relevant, ethically sound, and conducted in a manner that is respectful of local norms and regulations. Collaborators familiar with the local context can provide critical insights into the community, facilitate participant recruitment, and help navigate any legal or ethical issues that may arise.

Involving local partners can also enhance the validity of the study by ensuring that it takes into account local experiences and perspectives. These collaborations are essential for establishing trust and ensuring that the research benefits the community being studied.

The other inquiries, while relevant in different contexts, do not directly address this critical aspect of ethical research practice. Evaluating the presence of local research ethics committees is important for oversight but does not emphasize the practical benefits of local collaboration. Similarly, considerations regarding sample size and funding are essential elements of research planning but do not revolve around the ethical engagement and cultural sensitivity that local collaborators offer.