Appendix A: Consent form

You are invited to participate in a research study of the use of computer-assisted training as a supplement or alternative for classroom training of workplace-related topics. You were selected as a possible participant because you are part of a group of NESLAB employees who are scheduled to receive training in Electrical Circuits and Measurements. We ask that you read this form and ask any questions you may have before agreeing to be in the study.

This study is being conducted by Rick Mills of NESLAB, as part of a course of study with Walden University of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Background Information:

The purpose of this study is to compare employee training using two different methods: regular classroom lecture (as NESLAB has provided in the past); and computer-assisted training, in which you would use a computer to be guided through a lesson. The employees participating in the study will be divided randomly into two groups: one group for each method. After the two groups complete their training, the test scores and costs will be compared to determine if computer-assisted training is a reasonable method.

Procedures:

If you agree to be in this study, we would ask you to do the following things. You would be asked to be in either the classroom group or the computer-assisted group. The training series will consist of three one-hour sessions. These will take place during your regular work day. You would complete a test at the beginning and end of the series, and answer a survey about how you felt about the training method.

Note: persons using the computer-assisted method will be able to work at their own pace, so the time required may be more or less than one hour per session.

Risks and Benefits of Being in the Study:

The study has no known risks.

The benefits to participation are: You would have the opportunity to affect how NESLAB provides training in the future.

Compensation:

NESLAB provides employee training as a condition of employment, so you will receive your regular wage for all time spent in the study. All training, exams, etc. will occur during your regularly scheduled work shift.

You may also receive a copy of the results of the study if you wish.

Confidentiality:

The records of this study will be kept private. In any sort of report we might publish, we will not include any information that will make it possible to identify a subject. Research records will be kept in a locked file; only the researcher(s) will have access to the records.

Voluntary Nature of the Study:

While training in this topic is a condition of employment, you may choose whether or not to participate in this study. If you choose not to participate in the study, you will be assigned to the regular classroom session, and your scores would not become part of the study.

Your decision whether or not to participate in the study will not affect your current or future relations with NESLAB. If you decide to participate, you are free to withdraw at any time without affecting those relationships.

Contacts and Questions:

The researcher conducting this study is Rick Mills. You may ask any questions you have now. If you have questions later, you may contact him at... [note: outdated contact information has been removed. See the home page for current contact information]

You will be given a copy of this form to keep for your records.

Statement of Consent:

I have read the above information. I have asked questions and received answers. I consent to participate in the study.

Signature:_____________________________________________Date:____ _____________

Signature of parent or guardian:___(not applicable)___Date:_________________

Signature of Investigator:____________________________________________Date:_________________