Frequently Asked Questions
We are investigating the dynamics of visual attention, early word learning and visual working memory. A range of studies are being run at any one time. The details of the study are explained prior to participation and the full information sheet relating to each study is provided when you take part in the study. This can also be requested prior to participation.
Participation in the study is completely optional. We will explain the study in full when you come in and if you decide to have your child participate, you will be asked to sign a consent form. You are free to withdraw your child’s participation at any time, without giving a reason. This will not affect you or your child in any way. Likewise, if you notice that your child is uncomfortable when participating in the study, then it is possible to stop the study at any time.
You child will usually receive a small gift (toy) and a ‘Child Scientist’ t-shirt for their participation, even if they stop participating before the study is completed. In a few studies, we may provide you with a small monetary compensation for your time but if this is the case, it will be explained prior to participation.
All information which you provide prior to and during the study will be stored in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and 2018 Data Protection Act and kept strictly confidential. The Chief Investigator(s) will be the custodian of the anonymous research data. Any identifiable data will be stored separately in a password protected file and will be securely disposed of as soon as it is no longer necessary.
To help protect your child’s confidentiality, each participant will be assigned a unique identification code that will be used in place of your child’s name to identify all study data. The master list connecting your child’s name and assigned code will be stored separately in locked storage. All study forms and recordings will be stored in locked filing cabinets or in password-protected computer files. Only research team members will have access to these forms and recordings.
If we learn about possible child abuse, child sexual abuse, or harming yourself or others we will have to disclose this information to the proper authority.
The results of the study will be written up in an undergraduate dissertation or data may be published in a scientific journal and presented at conferences. However, your child and any data given will not be identifiable from any reports, written or presented.
We will offer you an appointment at a time that is convenient for you. At the appointment a researcher will brief you about what to expect during the study and you will sign a consent form prior to participation. There is the opportunity to ask any questions before giving consent. Each study will vary in what activity your child will do but this will be fully explained before participation. You are free to withdraw your child’s participation at any time, without giving a reason.
Yes. We do not separate a child from their parent. During the study the child will be either on your lap or you will be seated next to them.
Our studies do not have any risks beyond those typically experienced in everyday activities. It is possible that your child will become bored or uncomfortable with the study activities or become tired. You may ask for a break or end the study session at any time.
Taking part in this research study is completely voluntary. You may choose not to let your child take part at all but if you do, you may stop the study at any time. We can remove de-identified coded data and video data within one month of collection. If you decide you do not wish to have your child included in a study, or if you stop participation at any time, your child won’t be penalised or lose any benefits for which she/he would otherwise qualify.
This research has received ethical approval from the University of East Anglia Psychology ethics committee.