Consent Form
When writing a dissertation, you should remember that any research projects involving human respondents usually require their consent before collecting any data. We have developed a set of step-by-step guidelines, which might help you create a consent form.
- Give the title of your study and the researcher’s name.
- State that the participant information sheet has been read and the respondent has had the opportunity to ask all the questions they wanted.
- A statement should be included stating that the participant understands what is expected from them and how the data collection process will be managed.
- Provide a section for the participant to confirm their voluntary participation.
- State that the respondent is free to withdraw consent at any time.
- State the period of time within which the participant can withdraw permission to use their data.
- Include a statement that the data provided by the participant may be looked at by the researcher, supervisor, and thesis committee members.
- Re-state the risks and benefits associated with the study. If no risks/benefits are involved, make it clear by including an appropriate statement.
- You should also include a statement that the researcher will secure the anonymity and security of the respondent.
- Include a section for the respondent to indicate agreement to participate by signing the form or ticking the appropriate check-box.
Below, we have included an example of how a consent form for dissertation data collection may look.
Example a consent form:
Project Title: _________________________________________
Student Name: ________________________________________
By signing this consent form, I declare that: