Data protection is each individual's fundamental right to privacy and the ability to control their personal information. It is a basic right enshrined in both the Constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). In research, data protection for research participants is of utmost importance, and a specific procedure has been established for this at the University of Agder (UiA).
Contact form for research support
Personal data refers to information or assessments that can be linked to an individual, such as an email address, name, or age. Information about behavioral patterns is also considered personal data.
Additionally, some personal data is categorized as sensitive (in new legislation referred to as special categories of personal data):
- Racial or ethnic background, or political, philosophical, or religious beliefs
- Information about criminal convictions and offenses
- Health conditions
- Sexual life and orientation
- Genetic and biometric data
- Trade union membership
The processing of personal data refers to all types of handling of personal data, such as collection, storage, transfer, publication, and deletion.
All research projects at the University of Agder (UiA) planning to collect personal data must be reported to Sikt – the Knowledge Sector Service Provider, before data collection begins. Sikt assists by conducting preliminary checks and follow-up/post-control of research projects. Projects are reported to Sikt via an online form on their website.
Notification form for personal data (to Sikt)
Guidelines, procedures, and information
Procedures for processing personal data in research (in Norwegian)
Using Zoom for data collection
Guidelines for the use of video for interviews in student assignments
Guidelines for personal data in student projects
Guidelines for PC loans for student projects
Information about data protection services for research (Sikt's webpage)
Contacts for privacy protection
- espen.barias@uia.no
- Phone
- +47 38 14 27 16
- trond.hauso@uia.no