Course-Based Letter of Information
[The title of your study: same as one used in subject pool if you are using it or that you
used on your ethics application]
This research is being conducted by [your name]. I am an Undergraduate Honours student
working with [your supervisor’s name], of the Department of Psychology at Queen’s University
in Kingston, Ontario.
This study has been granted clearance according to the recommended principles of Canadian
ethics guidelines, and Queen's policies.
What is this study about? The purpose of this research is to [describe the aims of your study
here]. We ask participants to [describe your procedures here – make sure to list a description of
any devices used to record responses or data]. We estimate that it takes about [time estimate] to
complete these tasks.
Are there any risks to my participation? [describe any physical, psychological, economic, or
social risks here. Indicate how those risks will be addressed. Here is some sample wording, but
the exact wording will depend on the nature of the risks: Example 1: “Some of the questions in
the questionnaires [or interviews] are of a personal nature. Thus, there is a risk that you will find
some of them upsetting. If so, you are free to skip questions, pause or stop the study.” Example
2: “There is the risk of discomfort while holding your arm in the cold water. You are free to
pause or stop the study at any time.” Example 3: If your study involves no risk at all, you can use
the wording “there are no known physical, psychological, economic, or social risks associated
with participation in this study.”
Are there any benefits to my participation? [describe any benefits. Do NOT include monetary
compensation as a benefit. If your study does not involve any direct benefits (most studies in our
department) the following wording could be used “This project does not involve any direct
benefits. However, your participation will help us learning more about [your topic].”]
Is my participation voluntary? Yes. Although it be would be greatly appreciated if you would
answer all material as frankly as possible, you should not feel obliged to answer any material that
you find objectionable or that makes you feel uncomfortable. You may also withdraw at any time
by letting the experimenter know.
Is my participation anonymous? Yes. All information identifying you (e.g., your name and
email) will be stored separately from your responses. We will store these records in [describe
where the data will be stored; e.g., “a locked room; password protected computer.”]. Only [list
people who will have access to data; e.g., “authorized researchers”] have access to this area.
These records will be destroyed [when no longer needed]. To help us ensure confidentiality,
please do not put your name on any of the research study answer sheets.
What will happen to my responses? We will store the raw data (including paper, audio, and
video records) in [describe where the data will be stored; e.g., “a locked room.” “Databrary”].
Scientific rigour often requires that we go back to our original records. Thus, original records
will be kept indefinitely.*** The coded data, without any information identifying individual
participants, will be made available to the scientific community [through a public data
depository]. Thus, the data from this study may be reanalyzed in the future to answer other
questions. The data may also be [indicate how the data will be published and any secondary
usage; e.g., “presented in professional psychological journals or at scientific conferences, but any
such presentations will be of general findings and will not allow the identification of individual
participants.”].
*** For sharing video or audio data, please see language at Databrary.org where Queen’s is a
signatory: https://databrary.org/access/policies/release-template.html
Will I be compensated for my participation? Yes/No. In exchange for your help, we will grant
you [indicate remuneration; e.g., “1 credit towards Psychology 100 for every hour of
participation in this session”.]. No, unfortunately we do not have the funds to enable us to
compensate you for your time.
Any questions about the study and your participation in it may be directed to the <your
supervisor’s name> at < contact info >. Any ethical concerns about the study may be directed to
the Chair of the General Research Ethics Board at 613-533-6081 or Chair.GREB@queensu.ca
Again, thank you. Your interest in participating in this research study is greatly appreciated.
[supervisor’s name]
[Assistant Prof., Associate Prof., or Professor]
[your name]
Undergraduate Honours Student