JMU OSP

Module 2
Assessing Understanding

It is your responsibility as a researcher to ensure that prospective participants understand the extent of their role in your research. Read through the consent document with them and discuss participation prior to their involvement in your research. During these discussions you should answer questions and ask questions, too. Use open-ended and nondirective questions. Open-ended questions often begin with words such as "what," "where," "how often," "when," and "please describe."

A few of the questions you may want to ask are:

• Describe in your own words the purpose of the study.
• What more would you like to know?
• Would you please explain to me what you think we're going to ask you to do?
• What are your concerns?

However, the idea is not to quiz them. Foster an open exchange of information and encourage them to ask questions. Remind them to continue to ask questions as they occur during their participation. Their willingness to be proactive and ask questions does not release you from the responsibility to provide the necessary information on which their decision should be made.

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