Study of the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on student wellbeing and experiences of aggression
INFORMATION FOR PARTICIPANTS
AUSTRALIA
Researchers: Dr Grace Skrzypiec and Dr Mirella Wyra, College of Education, Psychology and Education, Flinders University, Australia
Consent Form: https://research-all.org/Parent---Carer-Consent-Form.php
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What is the study about?
This study seeks to examine the wellbeing (including depression and anxiety) of students in Years 6-10 and their experiences of aggression while learning from home during lock-down. The aim is to inform school communities about the pastoral care needs of students once they return to school following their isolation.
If you consent to your child’s participation, what will they be asked to do?
Students will be asked to complete a 12-15 minute anonymous online questionnaire and answer questions about their experiences of aggression (including bullying) during lock-down, their wellbeing, resilience and mental health.
Participants and their school will not be identified in any subsequent reports. Students do not have to answer any question they don’t wish to and they are free to withdraw at any time.
What are the benefits of participating in this study?
Participants may not directly benefit from this research. However, the findings will provide information about the impact of social distancing and isolation on student wellbeing. This study will provide an indication of the additional support students will need once they return to school following a lift of restrictions. This will assist policy makers in formulating programs to enhance student wellbeing and ensure positive school learning environments for students.
What are the risks of participating?
There is a risk that a student may become upset if a question triggers a memory of a past incident. Phone numbers and links to online help available for assistance and support will be provided at the end of the online questionnaire. Details of free help services are also available on this website.
What about confidentiality?
Questionnaires will have no names and will be entirely anonymous. No one at the school will see questionnaire responses. In any publication of results, information will be provided in such a way that your child and their school cannot be identified.
What if I have complaints about the study?
This study has been reviewed and approved by the Flinders University Social and Behavioural Research Ethics Committee. If you have any concerns or complaints about the study you can contact the Secretary of the Committee on 8201 3116, or by fax on 8201 2035 or by email human.researchethics@flinders.edu.au. Any complaint you make will be investigated promptly and you will be told of the outcome. You will be given a copy of this form to keep.
What do I do now?
If you and your child agree to taking part in the study, please submit the Participant Information Statement and Consent form on the study website and then allow your child to complete the online questionnaire. (Please note that consent forms and the questionnaire are not connected.)
If you have any further questions or would like further information about this study or have any comments during the project, please feel free to contact me by e-mail: grace.skrzypiec@flinders.edu.au or phone: 8201 5878.
Thank you very much for taking the time to read this and considering whether you will allow your child to participate.
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