(To be adapted to your own research specifications)

Consent Form

(To be adapted to your own research specifications)

Title of Project:

Please initial box:

1 I confirm that I have read and understand the information sheet datedxxx for the above study with the relevant information and have had the opportunity to ask questions.

2 I understand that my participation is voluntary and that I am free to withdraw at any time, without giving any reason.

3 I understand that my responses will be anonymised (unless I state otherwise) and that confidentiality will be ensured.

4 I agree to take part in the above study.

Your signature will certify that you have voluntarily decided to take part in this research study having read and understood the information in the sheet for participants. It will also certify that you have had adequate opportunity to discuss the study with the researcher and that all questions have been answered to your satisfaction.

Name of Participant:

Signature:

Date:

Name of researcher:

Signature:

Contact information:

Date:

1 copy for participant and 1 for researcher

2449830144780Initial Research Ethics Checklist

00Initial Research Ethics Checklist

-412750-111000

Note: All researchers must complete this brief checklist to identify any ethical issues associated with their research. Before completing, please refer to the Ravensbourne Research Ethics Code of Practice which can be found here. Project Supervisors can advise on appropriate judgement in this review. Sections 1-5 must be completed by the researcher and Section 6 by the Project Supervisor prior to the commencement of any research. Approved ethics checklists maybe stored for audit purposes. Students should also retain a copy for inclusion in their dissertation, which will be checked to ensure that it complies with any ethical constraints identified on the ethics checklist.

RESEARCHER DETAILS

Name Email Course and Level PROJECT DETAILS

Project Title Project Summary

Please include detail on methodology, sample, outcomes, any risk issues etc Proposed Start & End Dates Project Supervisor ETHICS REVIEW CHECKLIST

Does the research involve or include:

Those involving vulnerable groups

OR

Those who lack capacity (Mental Health Act 2005) FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Will the research include topics which maybe objectively considered as sensitive? (eg. of a sexual nature, illegal or political behaviour, research into ethics, race, abuse or violence.)

FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Does the research include the use of administrative or secure data? FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Does the research involve groups where the permission of a gatekeeper is required? FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Will there be research data collected through covert means or that is carried out without participants full and informed consent? FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Will the research require access to records of personal or sensitive confidential information? FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Will any activities within the scope of research undertaken cause any person psychological stress, anxiety or humiliation? FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Does the research involve intrusive interventions or data collection? FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

As the researcher may your safety be called into question at any point? FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Will any general members of the public be used in a research capacity? FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Will any of the research be undertaken outside the United Kingdom? FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Will research be collected from any respondents via the internet?

FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Do the research methods involve visual / vocal means?

FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Does the research project involve the sharing of confidential information beyond that which was already given?

FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Will financial incentives be offered?

FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Is approval from an external Research Ethics Committee (e.g. Local Research Ethics Committee (REC), NHS REC) required/sought? FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Please give a summary of any ethical issues identified by answering yes to any of the above and the proposed action to address the issues. For example, particular confidentiality processes, additional information or permission forms which will be required, additional safety instructions to protect research project participants or researchers etc.

Note: If you have multiple issues please number ethical issues and actions in the same manner.

Ethical Issue: Action:

RESEARCHERS STATEMENT

I confirm that I have read and understood the Ravensbourne Research Ethics Code of Practice. I also confirm that the preparation for my project has included assessing any health and safety and confidentiality implications for project participants or researchers, that any data collected and stored will comply with the Data Protection Act and with requirements to protect participants and/or other confidential sources of data. The methods used have been discussed with either the Project Supervisor or the Academic Development Manager: Research. By submitting this form I am confirming the information is accurate to my knowledge.

Signed: Date: AFFIRMATION BY PROJECT SUPERVISOR Where there is a potential conflict of interest seek advice from the Academic Development Manager: Research

I believe the appropriate action is:

The research project proceeds in its present form FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

The research project proposal needs further assessment under Ravensbournes Ethics procedure FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

The research project needs to be returned to the applicant for modification prior to further action FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Reviewer Signature

Date Additional comments:

2449830144780Additional Research Information

00Additional Research Information

-412750-111000

Note: Some researchers may be asked to complete this form their research. Before completing, please refer to the Ravensbourne Research Ethics Code of Practice which can be found here. Project Supervisors can advise on appropriate judgement in this review. Sections 1-4 must be completed by the researcher and Section 5 by the Project Supervisor prior to the commencement of any research. Additional Research Information forms may be stored for audit purposes. Students should also retain a copy for inclusion in their dissertation, which will be checked to ensure that it complies with any ethical constraints identified on the ethics checklist.

RESEARCHER DETAILS

Name Email Course and Level EXPANDED PROJECT DETAILS

Project Title Additional Details

Please include additional detail for areas of concern identified in your initial ethics review checklist as requested by the university.

Clearly reference these in this section by using their numerical identifier found in the left hand column in section 3 below corresponding to the identified question detailed in the communication that you have received.

Be sure to satisfy all queries. NUMERICAL IDENITIFER ETHICS REVIEW CHECKLIST

Does the research involve or include:

Those involving vulnerable groups

OR

Those who lack capacity (Mental Health Act 2005)

Will the research include topics which maybe objectively considered as sensitive? (eg. of a sexual nature, illegal or political behaviour, research into ethics, race, abuse or violence.)

The ethics application should explain why the questions are necessary and how the risk of harm to the interviewees and interviewer will be minimised. Wherever possible, interviewees should be made aware of the possibility of sensitive topics in advance so that they can bear this in mind when deciding whether or not they want to take part. Participants should be reminded that they do not have to answer any questions they do not want to. Participants silence, or refusal to answer a question, should be respected. The information offered should be appropriate to the context. It may be helpful to provide sources of further information or support, either ahead of the interview or during an interview if a participant were to become distressed, such as the contact details of relevant support organisations. The interviewer should remain aware of the limits of their role as interviewer (e.g., rather than therapist or counsellor).

Does the research include the use of administrative or secure data?

Administrative data includes information such as social, security payment records, educational attainment records, health records, court records as well as tax records. Researchers using these data sets will need to be approved by the body supplying the data and keep data in secure areas. Issues however may arise when data are linked and where it may be possible to identify participants.

Does the research involve groups where the permission of a gatekeeper is required?

This includes research involving gatekeepers such as adult professionals (e.g. those working with children or the elderly) or research in communities (in the UK or overseas) where access to research participants is not possible without the permission of another adult, such as another family member (e.g. the parent or husband of the participant) or a community leader or social worker.

Will there be research data collected through covert means or that is carried out without participants full and informed consent?

Examples of this may be that your research uses hidden cameras or observation techniques where participants actions are included in the research, but are not made fully aware and do not explicitly agree to this method of data collection.

Will the research require access to records of personal or sensitive confidential information?

This is defined as personal data revealing racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs; trade-union membership; genetic data, biometric data processed solely to identify a human being; health-related data; data concerning a person's sex life or sexual orientation.

Will any activities within the scope of research undertaken cause any person psychological stress, anxiety or humiliation?

This is defined as research which could induce psychological stress, anxiety or humiliation or cause more than minimal pain. Participation must be voluntary and participants should be provided with the information they need to be able to make an informed decision about taking part. Participants must be treated with dignity and respect, including if their views are counter to those of the interviewer. If it is necessary to withhold information about aspects of the research or deceive participants about the true aims of the research (because this might affect their responses), this must be explained and justified within the ethics application. As well as making it clear to interviewees that they are able to stop or pause the interview at any point, the interviewer should look out for clues during an interview that an interviewee is becoming tired or is in need of a break. If the interviews are likely to take some time, participants may appreciate being offered a break and/ or refreshments.

Does the research involve intrusive interventions or data collection?

Intrusive research is the gathering of data from individuals through interviewing, observation, or surveying, when consent is legally required, yet the test subjects don't have the capacity to give such consent due to mental illness or developmental disability. It is a legal issue addressed by the United Kingdom Mental Capacity Act 2005.

Furthermore, this includes research which includes for example, the administration of substances, vigorous physical exercise or techniques such as hypnotism. In particular, where participants are persuaded to reveal information which they would not otherwise disclose in the course of everyday life.

As the researcher may your safety be called into question at any point?

This involves research where the safety of the researcher may be in question, in particular those working in the field and locally employed research assistants working outside the UK.

Will any general members of the public be used in a research capacity?

Members of the public are only involved in a research capacity if they are actively gathering information, conduction interviews and exhibiting any other behaviour associated with a researcher.

This does not include the public taking part in surveys or interviews.

Will any of the research be undertaken outside the United Kingdom?

This is of particular importance where research undertaken outside of the UK where there may be issues of local practice and political sensitivities.

Will research be collected from any respondents via the internet?

This focuses on sensitive information and any issues concerning identifiability while conducting research involving respondents through the internet, in particular where visual images are used, and where sensitive issues are discussed.

Do the research methods involve visual / vocal means?

In this research method concerns are primarily focussed around involving visual/vocal methods, particularly where participants or other individuals may be identifiable.

Does the research project involve the sharing of confidential information beyond that which was already given?

This includes research which may involve data sharing of confidential information beyond the initial consent given for example where the research topic or data gathering involves a risk of information being disclosed that would require the researchers to breach confidentiality conditions agreed with participants.

Will financial incentives be offered?

Research participants may be reasonably remunerated for their time, expenses, inconvenience and for the degree of discomfort they may experience while participating in a research study. All remuneration, reimbursements or in kind services must be approved by REC. Additional actions may be required before research can commence if the use of incentives to participate changes the relationship between the participants and the researcher(s). It has been argued that incentives may inappropriately commercialise the relationship between researchers and research participants, with implications for public trust. Participants from financially disadvantaged groups and those in resource-poor contexts may be particularly vulnerable in respect of this.

Is approval from an external Research Ethics Committee (e.g. Local Research Ethics Committee (REC), NHS REC) required/sought?

This is about the need to approach and external (so outside of our internal Ravensbourne REC) REC.

This would only be the case if your research is conducted together with another organisation which has their own REC.

Please give a summary of any ethical issues identified by answering yes to any of the above and the proposed action to address the issues. For example, particular confidentiality processes, additional information or permission forms which will be required, additional safety instructions to protect research project participants or researchers etc.

Note: If you have multiple issues please number ethical issues and actions in the same manner.

Ethical Issue: Action:

RESEARCHERS STATEMENT

I confirm that I have read and understood the Ravensbourne Research Ethics Code of Practice. I also confirm that the preparation for my project has included assessing any health and safety and confidentiality implications for project participants or researchers, that any data collected and stored will comply with the Data Protection Act and with requirements to protect participants and/or other confidential sources of data. The methods used have been discussed with either the Project Supervisor or the Academic Development Manager: Research. By submitting this form I am confirming the information is accurate to my knowledge.

Signed: Date: AFFIRMATION BY PROJECT SUPERVISOR Where there is a potential conflict of interest seek advice from the Academic Development Manager: Research

I believe the appropriate action is:

The research project proceeds in its present form FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

The research project proposal needs further assessment under Ravensbournes Ethics procedure FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

The research project needs to be returned to the applicant for modification prior to further action FORMCHECKBOX Yes FORMCHECKBOX No

Reviewer Signature

Date Additional comments:

This is an example of a participation sheet (please amend according to your own requirements)

PARTICIPANT INFORMATION SHEET

Name of School: Business and Computing

Name of Degree:

Title of Project:

I would like to invite you to take part in a research study. Before you decide you need to understand why the research is being done and what it involves. Please take time to read the following information carefully. Please feel free to ask questions if anything you read is not clear or would like more information. Take time to decide whether or not you want to take part.

Thank you for reading this.

My Name is XXXXXX I am an MBA student at Ravensbourne University London. I have chosen to research(insert your topic here). Ravensbourne Universitys Department of Business and Computing of Business is supporting me to undertake this project.

What is the purpose of this investigation?

Type research purpose here

Research Objective

The study will address the following objectives:

Do you have to take part?

Participation in this study is voluntary. I will describe the study and go through the information sheet, which will be given to you. I will then ask you to sign a consent form to show you agree to take part. At any time, you are free to withdraw without giving a reason. This will not affect the standard of care you receive.

What will you do in the project?

Describe what will be required of participants.

Why have you been invited to take part?

Explain how participant have the set of criteria for your sample group or how they fit the specified requirements.

Example: You have been chosen to take part because you have more than two years experience as a frontline manager/supervisor in the Hospitality industry and thus have the expert knowledge required to answer my questions.

What are the potential risks to you in taking part?

Example:

During the research you will be not exposed to any physical, psychological or legal risk or harm.

Interview questions have been structured in such a way so that your privacy will be protected and no pressure will be put on you to answer sensitive questions. All information pertaining to you as an individual and your organisation will be anonymised and kept confidential. The data you provide will not compromise your position in the organisation at any point in time.

What happens to the information in the project?

All information received will be stored securely in either locked or secure cabinets or password protected electronic files. All references to individuals and organisations will be removed or given pseudonyms of data is to be included within the submitted study, unless express permission has been given. All data will be destroyed on submission and successful completion of my MBA postgraduate degree.

Thank you for reading this information please ask any questions if you are unsure about what is written here.

What happens next?

If you are happy to be involved in this project, please sign the consent form to confirm this. If you do not wish to be involved, thank you very much for your time.

If desired, a feedback report can be sent once the investigation is complete.

This investigation was granted ethical approval by the University of the West of Scotland, School of Business and Creative Industries ethics committee.

If you have any questions/concerns, during or after the investigation, or wish to contact an independent person to whom any questions may be directed or from whom further information may be sought please contact:

Ravensbourne University London

Business and Computing

6 Penrose Way,

London

SE10 0EW

Researcher DetailsSupervisor Details:

Address:Address:

E-mail: E-mail:

Telephone:Telephone