Participant Information Sheet (Version 3, 29/4/13)
Study Title: Feelings about University Life (Part I)
Researchers: Dr Wing Yee Cheung
ERGO Study ID number: 6049
Please read this information carefully before deciding to take part in this research. If you are happy to participate you will be asked to tick a box by the end of the page.
What is the research about?
This is a social psychology research related to memories and life adjustment.
Why have I been chosen?
Any University of Southampton student who is graduating in 2013 can take part.
What will happen to me if I take part?
You’ll be asked to answer a few questions about your feelings toward University life today. We’ll ask you to leave us your email address and phone number so we can contact you in a few months’ time. We’ll then ask you to complete an online survey which takes about 15 minutes.
Are there any benefits in my taking part?
Participants who completed both parts of the study will receive a £5 Amazon voucher via email.
Also, you may benefit from participating because at the end you will learn about our specific research aims, as well as what scientists currently know about this area. You will also be told where to go for more information on this area of psychology. In addition, you will contribute to psychological science and our understanding of emotions and wellbeing.
Are there any risks involved?
There are no significant risks involved in this study beyond those you would encounter in everyday life. Some of the questions you may be asked may ask you to think about personal or sensitive topics and although we have tried to ensure that the study does not cause distress some people may experience temporary feelings of negative emotion. You may leave any questions blank that you would prefer not to answer.
Will my participation be confidential?
All data in this study are treated as confidential. We will ask you to provide us with a keycode, which is based on your initials and date of birth. We will use this keycode to link your responses you give today and the responses you will give a few months from now.
What happens if I change my mind?
Participation in this study is fully voluntary and you have the right to withdraw at any time with no penalty.
What happens if something goes wrong?
In the unlikely case that something goes wrong in this study we advise you to contact the chair of the Ethics Committee, Psychology, University of Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK. Phone: +44 (0)23 8059 4663, email s.l.boak@soton.ac.uk
Also, we have tried to ensure that the questions in this study do not cause any distress. However, it is not uncommon to experience some anxieties or concerns when completing questionnaires about emotions, and support is available. If participating in this study raises any issues for you, we recommend that you contact one of the following resources:
Where can I get more information?
If you have any questions about the study before beginning you may ask them now. At any time after participating you may contact any of the research team:
Dr. Wing Yee Cheung: W.Y.Cheung@soton.ac.uk
If you give your consent, please tick the box below:
