Starting Out with a Study

• Prior to starting a study, the researcher will need to provide the following details by filling out the user studies lab equipment checkout form and/or the user studies lab scheduling form that are available on the ISRC website https://isrc.umbc.edu/facilities/user-studies-lab/  and email to the ISRC lab manager:  umbcuserstudieslabs@gmail.com or current lab manager  

• Required equipment, and the requested checkout and expected return dates for each.
• Whether lab space needs to be reserved, in which case, which lab space, the study duration, and the days and times that the space is requested.  
• The study duration, along with the days and times it will be used also need to be provided. The research advisor name and IRB status (if data collected from human participants for research purposes).

• To check on the user studies lab availability, the researcher can view the user studies lab calendar on the ISRC website under https://isrc.umbc.edu/facilities/user-studies-lab/

Please note - that the lab managers schedule the time slots based on availability, which is on a first come first served basis.

Scheduling

• Researchers need to request time to use the ISRC space using the ISRC online scheduling form:
• Once scheduling information is received, the USL lab manager will email you to confirm the details of your reservation.  
• If needed, the researcher can request swipe access from the lab manager for the USL rooms.

Procedures for Use

• The user manuals for the software (Oculus, Noldus, and Tobii) installed in the desktop computers in RM 440 and 441 are located on the table beside the computer. Feel free to make copies but DO NOT remove the manual from either of the labs unless your intention is to make a copy and then return the original copy back to the lab. Manuals can also be downloaded from the company’s respective websites.
• To access the desktop, researchers can log on to the computers using their UMBC credentials.
• After each session/day’s use, make sure to LOG OUT of the computer before shutting it down. ISRC is not responsible for privacy issues related to accounts not being logged out after use.
• In addition to shutting down the computer when the session is complete, make sure to Turn OFF all additional equipment connected to the computer, such as the Tobii eye-tracker or VR headsets.
• Any changes that are made to the computer’s settings such as disabling the antivirus, need to be returned to the original setting when the session is complete.

Data Storage

• When using a lab computer, data needs to be stored in the Projects folder on the E: / drive. Please create a folder for your data and include the researcher name in the folder name. Data stored elsewhere will be deleted.

• Researchers are strongly advised to backup their data on an external drive which would be provided by the researcher.
• Data from a research study may stay on the computers for only two (2) months during an active study. The researcher may move the data to an external drive to prevent data loss.

Returning Equipment

• All returned items need to be handed to the lab managers who will then update the inventory forms appropriately. Please ensure that items are returned before their expected return dates. If this date will be later than the one communicated earlier, the researcher should let the lab manager know ahead of time.
• Researchers who return equipment in a damaged state are required to report the damage to the lab manager and may be responsible for repair or replacement costs of the equipment.
• Any missing item should be reported immediately to the lab manager.

Please note - It is the responsibility of the Researcher to check that all borrowed equipments are working properly before checking them out of the Lab.