As soon as a list of potential research problems is identified is not the point in the design process when the researcher should seek approval from the IRB. A list of potential research problems is a preliminary and broad stage of developing a research topic or question. It does not provide enough information or detail about the specific research that will be conducted involving human subjects. The researcher must develop a clear and focused research question, as well as a comprehensive and feasible research proposal or protocol, before seeking IRB approval.
 

Before the study methodology is actually implemented is the point in the design process when the researcher should seek approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB). The IRB is a commitee that reviews and approves research involving human subjects to ensure that it meets ethical and regulatory standards. The IRB protects the rights, welfare, and safety of the research participants, as well as the

integrity and quality of the research. The IRB also monitors the ongoing conduct and progress of the research. The researcher must submit a detailed proposal or protocol to the IRB that describes the purpose, background, design, methods, procedures, risks, benefits, and safeguards of the research. The IRB reviews the proposal and decides whether to approve it, reject it, or request modifications. The researcher must obtain IRB approval before starting any data collection or intervention involving human subjects. The researcher must also report any changes or problems that occur during the research to the IRB and seek re- approval if necessary. The IRB approval process is an essential and mandatory step in conducting ethical and responsible research.


The other options are not correct because:
 

Just before the findings are disseminated is not the point in the design process when the researcher should seek approval from the IRB. The dissemination of findings is the final stage of conducting and reporting research. It involves sharing and communicating the results, conclusions, implications, and recommendations of the research to various audiences, such as peers, practitioners, policymakers, or public. The dissemination of findings does not require IRB approval, unless it involves disclosing identifiable or sensitive information about the research participants. However, the researcher must have obtained IRB approval before conducting any data collection or intervention involving human subjects.
 

During the time that the study assumptions are being described is not the point in the design process when the researcher should seek approval from the IRB. The study assumptions are statements that reflect what the researcher believes to be true or taken for granted about the phenomenon of interest or the research design.