How is a respondent’s confidentiality protected?

Confidentiality is vital to the success of campus climate research, particularly if sensitive and personal topics are discussed. No identifiable personal information will be collected (e.g., student ID number, email address) nor is encouraged. While the survey cannot guarantee complete confidentiality because of the nature of multiple demographic questions, the data analysis team will take multiple precautionary measures to enhance individual confidentiality and the de-identification of data. No data already protected through regulation or policy (e.g., Social Security number, campus identification number, medical information) is obtained through this important survey. In the event of any publication or presentation resulting from the assessment, no personally identifiable information will be shared, and results will only be reported in the aggregate (by the group). In addition, the data collection and protection will be in line with the University’s Privacy Statement.

Participation in the survey is completely voluntary, and participants do not have to answer any question — except the first positioning question (student, staff or faculty) — and can skip any other questions they consider to be uncomfortable. Response options of “Don’t know” and “Prefer not to answer” are provided for that purpose.