Researchers:
Brian Benson & Therman Lee
Graduate Students, Oklahoma State University
Purpose
This research study is designed as a preliminary exercise to determine the state of an online dialect or variation of English, and to promote further research in the area. By taking this survey, you will assist in this investigation. The survey will ask several questions regarding how you use language online, and if you use ‘text speak’ when you have face-to-face conversations with other people.
Procedures
The voluntary survey begins with a few questions regarding your use of technology, then moves to several questions about how you use language. The last section of the survey asks for demographic information. The survey should take approximately ten minutes to complete.
Risks of Participation
There are no known risks associated with this research study which are greater than those ordinarily encountered in daily life.
Benefits
Benefits from this research study include a greater understanding of English usage online. The results of the survey will be posted on this site following completion of the study.
Confidentiality
The research study collects no identifiable information from you. The records of this research study will be kept private on a remote secured server. Any written results will discuss group findings and will not identify you. Research records will be stored until the end of the study (approximately one year) and then destroyed. Only researchers and individuals responsible for research oversight will have access to the records.
Compensation
No compensation will be given for participation in the research study.
Contacts
Please contact Therman Lee via email at therman.lee @ okstate.edu or Brian Benson at brian.benson @ okstate.edu if you have questions about the survey. If you have questions about your rights as a research volunteer, you may contact Dr. Shelia Kennison, IRB Chair, 219 Cordell North, Stillwater, OK 74078, 405-744-3377 or irb@okstate.edu.
Participant Rights
Participation in this research study is entirely voluntary, and you may abort your participation at any time by simply closing the browser window with no adverse risks.
Acceptance
By taking the survey, you understand that you are freely and voluntarily giving consent to use the information you provide to further enhance knowledge of language use online. Again, you are free to withdraw at any time, and your help in this research study is greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Brian & Therman