How to Obtain Consent
Consent Methods Based on Data Collection Method
Always default to written consent.
Alterations of consent are only allowed under certain considerations.*
| DATA COLLECTION METHOD | CONSENT COLLECTION METHOD | FACTORS AFFECTING WAIVER AND ALTERATION REQUESTS |
| In-Person Interview | Written hardcopy consent form collected at interview. |
Keep in mind that an in-person interview is by nature not anonymous. See also Common Rule.* |
| Online Video Interview (Zoom or other video conferencing method) | Written consent form can be electronic with secure acceptance or electronic signature or written and collected in hardcopy form or scanned copy. |
Keep in mind that an online video interview is by nature not anonymous unless extraordinary steps have been taken to create anonymity. See also Common Rule.* |
|
Telephone Interview |
Written consent form can be obtained ahead of time through hardcopy mail, or electronically at time of interview through AdobeSign, email, or other secure acceptance or electronic signature or through scanned copy, or verbally. If verbal, the individual obtaining consent reads and explains a scripted version of the consent form with detailed information about the study, and then the study participant gives their verbal consent in place of written consent. Provide subjects with a copy of the study information and provide an opportunity for the participant to ask questions. Document the discussion and keep it in the research file. |
Keep in mind that a telephone interview is by nature usually not anonymous unless extraordinary steps have been taken to create anonymity. See also Common Rule.* |
| Focus Groups | Written consent should fall under one of the interview methods listed above. |