What is a consent form and are some projects exempt using written consent forms?
Informed consent is key to the process of protecting human participants. Informed consent is typically documented through the use of a written signed consent form that describes the nature of the project and what the participant should expect to experience. It also establishes in writing that the participant has the discretion to withdraw from the project at any time without ill consequence. The consent form should be written in a language that is understood by the participant. If reading is a problem, the consent form should be read to the participant. The participant should be allowed to ask questions about the project prior to signing the consent form. The consent form must be signed by both the researcher and the participant, or his/her legal representative (e.g., a child’s parent or guardian). A copy of the signed consent form must be provided to person signing the form. Some projects do not require written signed consent. These projects include interaction with adult participants
