Andrews University
INFORMED CONSENT:
African Americans Expatriates and Racial Identity
You are being invited to take part in a research study. Before you decide to participate in this study, it is important that you understand why the research is being done and what it will involve. Please take the time to read the following information carefully. Please ask the researcher if there is anything that is not clear or if you need more information.
Title of Study: African American Expatriates and Racial Identity
Purpose of the Study
The purpose of this study is to investigate racial identity as experienced by African-Americans expatriates while abroad.
Inclusion Criteria
In order to participate, I recognize that I must be an adult over the age of 18 and a sound mind. I must identify as being an African-American and have lived, studied, and/or worked outside of the United States for a cumulative period of more than a year as an adult.
Study Procedure:
If you take part in this study, you will be asked to:
- Participate in a one-time online survey describing three unusual public encounters that you experienced while living abroad, assess how these experiences may have affected the two dimensions of racial identity (described in the survey) and share any conclusions drawn from that experience. Estimated time: 1 hour
- Give an email address and share feedback on the described themes as understood by the researcher for accuracy of concepts in a follow-up email within one month of completion of the survey. Estimated time: 30 min to an hour
Benefits/Results
I understand that there may be no direct benefits from my participation in this study and accept that I will receive no compensation for my participation. However, I understand that the information obtained from this study may assist the researcher by:
1. Providing the field of intercultural relations with further data on factors that may affect racial identity
2. Supplying the field of intercultural training with more information that can help better prepare other African-Americans for cross-cultural exchanges.
Risks
I have been informed that the risks of this study are minimal. These risks are may be similar to those I experience when sharing my experiences abroad with others. I am aware that the topics in the survey may upset me if the experience was particularly uncomfortable. I am aware that I may decline to answer any or all questions and that I may terminate my involvement at any time if I so choose.
Confidentiality
I am aware that every effort will be made by the researcher to preserve my confidentiality including the following:
1. The confidential handling of the information obtained by this survey
2. I am aware my opinions may be utilized for research purposes but that I will not be identified by name in the final written document.
Alternative Procedures
I understand that if I do not want to be in the study, I may choose not to participate and leave my answers blank.
I understand that if I do not want to participate in the follow-up session used to check the accuracy of the developed themes that I may choose not to.
I understand that submission of an email address will indicate a willingness to contribute feedback as to the accuracy of the developing themes from the researcher.
Contact Information
In the event that I have any questions or concerns with regard to my participation in this research project, I understand I may contact the Investigator, Alyssa Hislop, at alyssa.hislop@gmail.com, her advisor Dr. Herbert Helm athelmh@andrews.edu, or her research mentor Dr. Delyse Steyn at steynd@andrews.edu
Voluntary Participation:
Your participation in this study is voluntary. It is up to you to decide whether or not to take part in this study. If you decide to take part in this study, you are still free to withdraw at any time and without giving a reason. You are free to not answer any question or questions if you choose. This will not affect the relationship you have with the researcher.
Consent:
I confirm that I have read and understood the information and have had the opportunity to ask questions. I understand that my participation is voluntary and that I am free to withdraw at any time, without giving a reason and without cost. I recognize that by completing and returning this survey that I am giving my informed consent to participate