The wording
consent-form-clause-wording.docx · about 150 words
Consent form clause
Consent statements
- I understand that my interview will be transcribed, given a pseudonym and analysed by [Researcher name] for [Project title].
- I understand that my transcript will be viewed in Themescape, software that reads it in the researcher's web browser, and that it will not be sent to the company that makes Themescape or to anyone else.
- I agree that short quotes from my interview may be used in [the thesis, articles and presentations], under a pseudonym, with nothing included that could identify me.
- I understand that I can withdraw my data until [withdrawal date] by contacting [contact email].
Data handling
Themescape Limited's published data pledge states:
- Transcripts and quotes are read locally and never leave the machine.
- No file submission or permanent storage is required.
- Verbatim quotes are never altered, with a separate refined column for presentation wording.
- The Google Sheets mode is opt in, for non-sensitive data only.
The Google Sheets mode will not be used for this study's data.
Placeholders in square brackets are highlighted; replace each one before you submit.
Placeholders in this template
| Placeholder | Replace with |
|---|---|
[Researcher name] | The name of the researcher participants should contact. |
[Project title] | The title of your study, as it appears on your application. |
[the thesis, articles and presentations] | Where quotes and figures from the study will appear. |
[withdrawal date] | The last date a participant can withdraw their data. |
[contact email] | The email address participants should use for questions or to withdraw. |
How to adapt it
Add the four statements to the list on your consent form, in your form's own format, such as tick boxes or initials, and replace each placeholder. If your form already has a statement about quotes or withdrawal, keep one version only.
The Data handling section can go on the consent form or, if your committee prefers a shorter form, on the information sheet instead. Keep the four pledge lines exactly as written.
Limits
This wording describes how Themescape handles research data. It does not describe your recording device, transcription, storage or coding software, which your application needs to cover separately.
It has not been approved by any ethics committee or funder, and it is not legal advice. Your institution's ethics office has the final say on what your application needs.