Invitation Paragraph
You are being asked to take part in a research study. Before you decide, it is important for you to understand why the research is being done and what it will involve. Please take time to read the following information carefully and discuss it with others if you wish. Ask me if there is anything that is not clear or if you would like more information. Take time to decide whether or not you wish to take part. Thank you for reading this . You may ask me any questions if anything is not clear or if you want more information via e-mail at 1507026@brunel.ac.uk.
What is the purpose of the study?
e-activism are the technologies used in citizen activism. Some examples include social media, podcasts, e-mail etc. The aim of this survey is to understand the technologies young people use in e-activism and to what extent they can influence people more engaging in digital activism, and whether or not these technologies could help to reduce the issues of apathy (disinterest) and digital divide (lack of access to technology). This study will be carried out until the second week of September.
Why have I been invited to participate?
You have been invited as you could help provide useful and valuable feedback to the questionnaire, as you may have some knowledge and/or experience in using e-activism technology. You must be at 18-40 years of age and living in the UK to participate.
Do I have to take part?
As participation is entirely voluntary, it is up to you to decide whether or not to take part. If you do decide to take part you will be given this information sheet to keep and you may be asked to sign a consent form. If you decide to take part you are still free to withdraw at any time up until 1 August 2020 and without having to give a reason.
What will happen to me if I take part?
You will only have to answer a set up multiple-choice and written response questions in relation to the topic. If the written answer questions lacks detail in responses, a follow-up interview may be arranged and voluntary to participate to ensure enough information is gathered to perform a qualitative data analysis. This interview could take up more time.
Are there any lifestyle restrictions?
No, there are no lifestyle restrictions.
What are the possible disadvantages and risks of taking part?
There are no anticipated disadvantages or risks associated with taking part in this study. Some written response questions require to give a longer response to reasons for using that technology. This survey is about the technology itself, rather than politics, so sensitive information like political affiliation is not requested.
What are the possible benefits of taking part?
There are no benefits of taking part of the study but helping further understanding the use of e-activism technologies .
What if something goes wrong?
Appropriate precautions have been made to ensure the data is securely stored in line with Brunel University’s policy on data storage. Should you have any further questions during the survey or complaints you can email me at 1507026@brunel.ac.uk. If you wish to withdraw your responses after the submission, you can email 1507026@brunel.ac.uk with the 4 digit code provided at the beginning of the survey if you wish to take part. You can also email the head of ethical committee at hua.zhao@brunel.ac.uk if you have any complaints about this study or if you find something has gone wrong.