INFORMED CONSENT FORM

  The following study is to test the varying relationship between taste preferences and the use of lithium treatment. It is to be conducted under full supervision by head supervisor, Ms. Koot and will take place at the Veterans Administration Hospital. The approximate duration of this study while be for 5 days for no more than 15 minutes per person. Individuals who chose to participate will sample diluted solutions of the following taste enhancers; sucrose (sweet), salt, citric acid (sour), and quinine sulfate (bitter).  Be aware that researches will be also instructed to collect information such as, age, smoking history, and duration of lithium administration.  Participants in this study shall be awarded with 10 dollars for each successful 10-15 minute session.

  

   Participation  is fully voluntary and all personal information shall remain confidential, including personal records. A research number will be assigned as reinforcement to anonymity amongst participants and all data recorded is to be locked and under full supervision in a filing cabinet during regular office hours. The researchers, however, shall be responsible for breaking certain aspects of the contract within certain circumstance. First, Participants revealing or exhibiting the use of child or elder abuse shall be reported to the authorities. Researches are also responsible for reporting any signs of self-harm or potential harm that may affect the lives of others.

  Participants in this study will help enrich the understanding of how lithium alters taste. Please do note that there is very little risk for partaking in this study, but if concerned, it is important to also note that all participants have the right to withdraw at any time. No collected information shall be used against an individual who ceases to participate. The individual will not be disciplined or harmed in any way and shall receive the awards they are entitled to.  

  

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By signing this letter I have agreed to act as a participant in the study. All information and procedures about the study have been explained. I understand the possible risks and benefits that may result from this experience and that I may contact the head supervisor, Ms. Koot, if I have any further questions. I have also been informed that I am permitted to withdraw from the study at any given time and will be fully compensated for any research related injuries. 

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Participant Signature                                            Name (print)                                          Date

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Researcher’s Signature                                        Name (print)                                           Date

Writing Assingnment #1 : how do you feel about blogging

   With almost no prior experience, setting up a blog seemed almost effortless. The site is set on a simple layout, which is what makes it easy. This is the first time I have used blogging  for educational purposes. I look forward to see what happens.
  
   Using a blog may be beneficial to this course. By doing so,  we will be saved from numerous hand cramps and hundreds of wasted paper balls. It will also come in handy while having to use online resources for note taking, as well as recording links to websites. After being a student for almost twelve years, I believe that my written work is completed with more progress by means of computer access. I find that it is easier to compare my ideas when I am able to see them aside one another, rather than having to cross out or erase them. It is easier to connect ideas in this manner and will reduce the chances of having to hand in late assignments.     
  
   As of now, I am uncertain about the idea of this blog being open to the public. The opinions that may come from a third party slightly worry me. If others were to discover my thoughts, would they judge me by my perspective on various topics? In other cases, however, I believe that it is a good means of communication of  these thoughts, because psychology is quite often based on  gray matter. I often wonder if others think as similarly as I . The chance that some of my material being used in further psychology related material and studies may never happen, but the idea of it is kind of exciting. My intention for this blog is to broaden the mind set of other psychology students, as well as the general public. I'm not exactly stuck on it yet, but I have a feeling that I may consider using such means in the near future.