RequestLetters

Permission Letter To Conduct Research: How To Draft It Right!

In this article, I’ll share my insights and provide you with a step-by-step guide, including customizable templates , to craft your own effective permission letter for research.

Key Takeaways Understand the purpose and importance of a permission letter for research. Learn the essential components to include in your letter. Get a step-by-step guide to writing a compelling permission letter. Benefit from a customizable template to streamline your writing process. Discover practical tips from my personal experience to enhance your letter.

Understanding the Importance of a Permission Letter for Research

A permission letter for research is a crucial document that formally requests authorization to conduct a study in specific locations or collect data from a particular group.

It serves as a formal agreement between the researcher and the authority or individuals involved, ensuring that the research is conducted ethically and legally.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Permission Letter

Step 1: start with contact information and date.

Always begin your letter by stating your contact information at the top, followed by the date. This should include your name, address, phone number, and email address.

Step 2: Address the Recipient Properly

Address the recipient by their proper title and name. If you’re unsure, a general “To Whom It May Concern” can suffice, but personalized greetings are always more impactful.

Step 3: Introduce Yourself and Your Affiliation

Trending now: find out why.

Introduce yourself, your position, and your affiliation. This sets the context and establishes your credibility.

Step 4: Clearly State the Purpose of Your Letter

Be clear and concise about your intent to seek permission for research. Mention the research topic and why the specific site or group is essential for your study.

Step 5: Provide Details of Your Research

Explain the scope of your research, the methodology you’ll use, and the expected duration. Transparency is key to gaining trust and approval.

Step 6: Assure Ethical Compliance

Highlight your commitment to ethical standards, including how you’ll ensure participant confidentiality and data protection.

Step 7: Request for Approval

Politely request permission to proceed with your research, expressing your willingness to comply with any required protocols or guidelines.

Step 8: Include Contact Information for Follow-up

Offer your contact information again, encouraging the recipient to reach out with any questions or requests for further details.

Step 9: Close with a Professional Salutation

End your letter with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely,” followed by your name and signature.

Template for a Permission Letter To Conduct Research

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Phone Number] [Email Address] [Date]

[Recipient’s Name or Title] [Organization’s Name] [Address] [City, State, Zip Code]

Dear [Recipient’s Name or Title],

I am writing to request permission to conduct research at [location/site/group], as part of my [research project/study] on [topic]. My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Position] at [Your Institution or Organization].

The purpose of my research is to [briefly state the objective]. I believe that [location/site/group] is essential for my study because [reason]. The research will involve [describe the methodology], and I anticipate it will take approximately [duration] to complete.

I assure you that all research activities will adhere to the highest ethical standards. Participant confidentiality and data protection will be strictly maintained throughout the research process.

Your approval to conduct this research would be greatly appreciated. I am more than willing to adhere to any specific protocols or requirements you may have. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] if you have any questions or need further information.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your positive response.

[Your Name] [Your Signature, if sending a hard copy]

Personal Tips from My Experience

  • Personalize Your Letter:  Tailoring the letter to the recipient shows respect and attention to detail.
  • Be Concise but Thorough:  Provide enough detail to inform but not so much that it overwhelms the reader.
  • Follow-Up:  Don’t hesitate to follow up if you haven’t received a response within a reasonable time frame.
  • Show Appreciation:  Always express gratitude for the recipient’s time and consideration.

I hope this guide helps you craft an effective permission letter for your research. I’d love to hear about your experiences or any additional tips you might have. Please share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Q: What is a permission letter to conduct research?

Answer : A permission letter to conduct research is a formal request to obtain permission from an organization or individual to conduct research on a particular topic. This type of letter is commonly used by students, researchers, and scholars who require permission to carry out their research.

Q: Why is a permission letter to conduct research important?

Answer : A permission letter to conduct research is important because it shows that the researcher has obtained the necessary permissions to conduct their research. It also provides a clear understanding of the scope and nature of the research and how it will be conducted, which can help to prevent misunderstandings or legal issues.

Q: Who should I address my permission letter to?

Answer : You should address your permission letter to the individual or organization that has the authority to grant permission for your research. This could be the head of the organization, a department manager, or an individual who is responsible for the area that you wish to conduct research in.

Q: What should I include in my permission letter to conduct research?

Answer : Your permission letter to conduct research should include an introduction that outlines your research topic and objectives, an explanation of why you need permission, an overview of your research methodology, details on the timeline and logistics of your research, and a formal closing that thanks the recipient for their time and consideration.

Q: How do I ensure that my permission letter to conduct research is effective?

Answer : To ensure that your permission letter to conduct research is effective, make sure that it is clear, concise, and polite. Provide detailed information about your research and the nature of your request, and address any potential concerns or objections that the recipient may have. Finally, proofread your letter carefully to ensure that it is free from errors and typos.

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  • Library Guides
  • Survey & Instrument Permissions

Copyright: Survey & Instrument Permissions

  • Requesting Permissions to Use and Reproduce Instruments in a Thesis/Dissertation [PDF] Download a PDF copy of the below FAQ
  • Sample Permission Letter Template Download a template letter for requesting permissions

Permissions to Use and Reproduce Instruments in a Thesis/Dissertation Frequently Asked Questions

Why might i need permission to use an instrument in my thesis/dissertation.

  • How do I know if I need permission to use instruments in my thesis/dissertation research?
  • How do I identify the copyright holder so I know who to ask?
  • How do I ask for permission to use and reproduce an instrument in my thesis/dissertation?
  • What if I can't locate the copyright holder?

If you want to use surveys, questionnaires, interview questions, tests, measures, or other instruments created by other people, you are required to locate and follow usage permissions. The instrument may be protected by copyright and/or licensing restrictions.

Copyright Protection

Copyright provides authors of original creative work with limited control over the reproduction and distribution of that work. Under United States law, all original expressions that are “fixed in a tangible medium” are automatically protected by copyright at the time of their creation. In other words, it is not necessary to formally state a declaration of copyright, to use the © symbol, or to register with the United States Copyright Office.

Therefore, you must assume that any material you find is copyrighted, unless you have evidence otherwise. This is the case whether you find the instrument openly on the web, in a library database, or reproduced in a journal article.  It is your legal and ethical responsibility to obtain permission to use, modify, and/or reproduce the instrument.

If you use and/or reproduce material in your thesis/dissertation beyond the limits outlined by the “fair use” doctrine, which allows for limited use of a work, without first gaining the copyright holder’s permission, you may be infringing copyright.

Licensing/Terms of Use

Some instruments are explicitly distributed under a license agreement or terms of use. Unlike copyright, which applies automatically, users must agree to these terms in order to use the instrument. In exchange for abiding by the terms, the copyright holder grants the licensee specific and limited rights, such as the right to use the instrument in scholarly research, or to reproduce the instrument in a publication.

When you ask a copyright holder for permission to use or reproduce an instrument, you are in effect asking for a license to do those things.

How do I know if I need permission to use instruments in my thesis/dissertation research?  (Adapted from  Hathcock  &  Crews )

There are different levels of permissions for using an instrument:

a)  No permission required

i. The copyright holder has explicitly licensed the use of instrument for any purpose, without requiring you to obtain permission.

ii. If you are only using a limited portion of the instrument, your use may be covered under the Fair Use Doctrine. See more the University of Minnesota’s Thinking Through Fair Use tool at  https://www.lib.umn.edu/copyright/fairthoughts .

iii. If the instrument was developed by the federal government or under a government grant it may be in the public domain, and permission is therefore not required.

iv. If the document was created before 1977, it  may  be in the public domain, and permission is therefore not required. See the Stanford Public Domain Flowchart at  https://fairuse.stanford.edu/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/publicdomainflowchart.png .

b)  Non-commercial/educational use: The copyright holder has licensed the instrument only for non-commercial research or educational purposes, without requiring you to obtain the permission of the copyright holder. Any other usage requires permission.

Sample Permission for Educational Use:

Test content may be reproduced and used for non-commercial research and educational purposes without seeking written permission. Distribution must be controlled, meaning only to the participants engaged in the research or enrolled in the educational activity. Any other type of reproduction or distribution of test content is not authorized without written permission from the author and publisher. Always include a credit line that contains the source citation and copyright owner when writing about or using any test.

Source: Marta Soto, “How Permissions Work in PsycTests,” APA Databases & Electronic Resources Blog. American Psychological Association.  http://blog.apapubs.org/2016/12/21/how-permissions-work-in-psyctests/ .

Even if you are not required to obtain permission to use the instrument, consider contacting the author for ideas on how to administer and analyze the test. Authors often welcome further use of their work, and may request you send them a copy of your final work.

c)  Permission required:  Instruments that require you to obtain the permission of the copyright holder, regardless of whether the use is for educational or commercial purposes. This may be because the copyright holder

  • has important directions for how the test must be administered and analyzed
  • wants to make sure the most current version is being used
  • charges users a fee in order to administer the test

If you cannot locate the permissions, you are required to identify the copyright holder and contact them to ask about permission to use the instrument.

How do I identify the copyright holder so I know who to ask?   (Adapted from  Crews )

If you determine that you need permission, the next step is to identify who owns the copyright. The copyright holder is usually the creator of the work. If the copyright owner is an individual, you will need to do the usual Internet and telephone searches to find the person. Be ready to introduce yourself and to explain carefully what you are seeking.

Some authors transfer copyright to another entity, such as a journal publisher or an organization. In these cases, you must obtain permission from that entity to use or reproduce the instrument. You can often identify the owner by locating a © copyright notice, but as mentioned above, not all copyrighted works have a notice.

Check the following sources to locate instruments, their copyright holders, and their permission statements:

  • Goldman, Bert A., and American Psychological Association. Directory of Unpublished Experimental Mental Measures., 1974. (print): https://okstate-stillwater.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/permalink/01OKSTATESTILL_OKSTAT/16c9pn6/alma998132075502681
  • EBSCO Publishing, and Buros Institute of Mental Measurements. Mental Measurements Yearbook. Ipswich, MA: EBSCO Publishing, 1990. Available at https://library.okstate.edu/databases/m/mental-measurements-yearbook
  • PsycTESTS: https://library.okstate.edu/databases/p/psyctests
  • OSU Library guide to Finding Tests & Measurements: https://info.library.okstate.edu/tests

​You may need to contact the author or publisher directly to find out who owns the copyright. Publishers often have websites that prescribe a method for contacting the copyright owner, so search the publisher website for a permissions department or contact person. Be sure to confirm the exact name and address of the addressee, and call/e-mail the person or publishing house to confirm the copyright ownership.

  • The copyright owner may prefer or require that permission requests be made using a certain medium (i.e. fax, mail, web form, etc.). If you do not follow instructions, you may not get a reply.
  • Telephone calls may be the quickest method for getting a response from the owner, but they should be followed up with a letter or e-mail in order to document the exact scope of the permission. E-mail permissions are legally acceptable in most cases, but getting a genuine signature is usually best.
  • The request should be sent to the individual copyright holder (when applicable) or permissions department of the publisher in question. Be sure to include your return address, telephone and fax numbers, e-mail address, and the date at the top of your letter or message. If you send the permission request by mail, include a self-addressed, stamped return envelope.
  • Make the process easy for the copyright owner. The less effort the owner has to put forth, the more likely you will get the permission you need. If you are using conventional mail, include a second copy of your request for the owner’s records.
  • State clearly who you are, your institutional affiliation (e.g., Oklahoma State University), and the general nature of your thesis/dissertation research.

Do not send permissions letters to all possible rightsholders simultaneously. Taking the time to find the person who most likely holds the copyright will better yield success. If you do not have much information about who actually owns the copyright, be honest with your contacts, and they may be able to help you find the right person.

How do I ask for permission to use and reproduce an instrument in my thesis/dissertation?   (Adapted from  Crews )

Once you have identified the copyright holder, you must determine the scope of your permission request. Some copyright owners furnish their own permission form that you may download from their website.

If the copyright owner does not provide a permission agreement form, you may write your own letter ( click here to download a template ). Requests should be made in writing; e-mail is fine for this purpose. A most effective letter will include detailed information concerning your request for permission to use the work. Include the following information:

  • Who: Introduce yourself. Tell who you are, your degree program, and a brief overview of your research.
  • Why: Tell why you are contacting that person or entity for permission.
  • What: Be as specific as possible when you cite and describe the instrument you wish to use. Include whether you plan to use the entire instrument, or if you plan on modifying or adapting any of the questions.
  • How: Tell how you plan to use the instrument. Specify the parameters of your research study, and include any important information about the way you will administer the instrument and/or analyze the results.
  • When: Expected length of the project and time to complete the thesis/dissertation.

Important : Obtaining permission to  use  an instrument is not the same as obtaining permission to  reproduce  the instrument in your appendix. If you intend on providing a copy of the instrument in an appendix, ask for separate permissions to do that.

Click here to download a template letter . Feel free to modify and adapt this template for your purposes.

Keep a record

After securing permission to use and/or reproduce the instrument, save a copy of the correspondence and the agreement. Documentation allows you to demonstrate to others that you have the legal right to use the owner's work. In the unlikely event that your use of the work is ever challenged, you will need to demonstrate your good faith efforts. That challenge could arise far in the future, so keep a permanent file of the records. Moreover, you might need to contact that same copyright owner again for a later use of the work, and your notes from the past will make the task easier.

Upload a copy of your permission letter in Vireo with your thesis/dissertation, or include it as an appendix in the document itself.

What if I can't locate the copyright holder?  (Adapted from  Hathcock  &  Crews & Pantalony )

In some cases, you may never get a response from the copyright holder or you may never even be able to identify who they are or how to contact them. It can be difficult to know how to proceed when you reach a dead end. Unfortunately, no matter how diligently you have tried to get permission, these efforts cannot completely eliminate the risk of infringement should you proceed to use the work.

Assuming you have diligently investigated your alternatives, do not want to change your project, and remain in need of the elusive copyright permission, the remaining alternative is to explore a risk-benefit analysis. You need to balance the benefits of using that particular material in your given project against the risks that a copyright owner may see your project, identify the materials, and assert the owner’s legal claims against you. Numerous factual circumstances may be important in this evaluation. The “benefit” may depend upon the importance of your project and the importance of using that particular material. The “risks” may depend upon whether your project will be published or available on the Internet for widespread access—as theses and dissertations will. You ought to investigate whether the work is registered with the U.S. Copyright Office and weigh the thoroughness of your search for the copyright owner and your quest for appropriate permission.

Undertaking this analysis can be sensitive and must be advanced with caution and with careful documentation. You may be acting to reduce the risk of liability, but you have not eliminated liability. A copyright owner may still hold rights to the material. Members of the Oklahoma State University community should consult with their chair, the OSU Library, and/or the OSU Office of Legal Counsel at  https://regents.okstate.edu/office-legal-counsel  to discuss their options.

Crews, Kenneth and Rina Elster Pantalony. “Special Cases.” Columbia University Copyright Advisory Services.  https://copyright.columbia.edu/basics/special-cases.html . Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).

Crews, Kenneth. “Asking for Permission.” Columbia University Advisory Services.  https://copyright.columbia.edu/basics/permissions-and-licensing.html . Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).

Hathcock, April. “Getting Permission.” NYU Libraries Copyright Library Guide,  https://guides.nyu.edu/c.php?g=276785&p=1845968 . Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0).

This guide was originally compiled and published  by Clarke Iakovakis  at the University of Houston-Clear Lake at  https://uhcl.libguides.com/ETD/permissions . The same author has recompiled, adapted, and redistributed the material on this page.

  • Last Updated: Apr 30, 2024 12:35 PM
  • URL: https://info.library.okstate.edu/copyrightbasics

permission letter for thesis research

Permission Letter To Conduct Research

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

[Recipient's Name]

[Title/Position]

[Institution/Organization]

Subject: Request for Permission to Conduct Research

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. My name is [Your Name], and I am a [your academic/professional background or affiliation] with a keen interest in [briefly describe your area of interest or expertise]. I am writing to request your kind permission to conduct research at [Institution/Organization name] as a part of my [mention degree program, if applicable] research project.

The purpose of my research is to [briefly explain the main objectives of your research and its potential benefits or contributions to the field]. The study will involve [describe the research methodology, such as surveys, interviews, observations, experiments, etc.] and is expected to be conducted from [start date] to [end date], though the duration may vary depending on the scope of the research.

I have chosen [Institution/Organization name] as the ideal setting for my research due to [explain why the chosen location is suitable for your research, such as access to resources, expertise, or relevant data]. I assure you that the research will be conducted with the utmost professionalism, adhering to all ethical guidelines and ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of all participants and collected data.

The data collected during the research will be used solely for academic purposes and may be included in my thesis/dissertation or other academic publications. I am committed to sharing the findings with the institution and am open to providing a summary of the results upon completion of the research.

Before proceeding with the research, I kindly request your formal permission to conduct this study at [Institution/Organization name]. Additionally, if there are any specific guidelines, procedures, or forms required by the institution for granting research permissions, please do let me know, and I will be glad to comply with all necessary requirements.

Thank you for considering my request. I am eager to receive your approval to commence my research at [Institution/Organization name]. If you have any questions or require further information, please feel free to contact me via email at [Your Email Address] or by phone at [Your Phone Number].

I look forward to your favorable response, and I sincerely appreciate your time and consideration.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Signature, if submitting a printed copy]

permission letter for thesis research

Dissertation Permission Letter Template

The major purpose of a dissertation is to allow you to present your findings in response to a proposition or question that you have chosen yourself. The main aim of the dissertation becomes testing your research skills.

In order to do it successfully, you might often need help from one of your professors or lecturers who will be able to guide you on the subject more properly. But for this, you need permission.

In order to write the ideal permission letter, go through the sample letter written by me, using which as a reference you can develop yours successfully.

Template: 1

(Name of the sender)

(Designation of the respective person)

(Name of the address)

Subject- Letter of Permission for Dissertation

Respected madam/sir,

This letter is to inform (mention the name of the person) that I (mention your name) student of (mention the name of the college or name of the institution) would like to say you that I want to do my dissertation on the topic (mention any project name or title which is suitable for you) under your guidance.

I am a very hard-working and sincere student. I would like to complete my dissertation under your guidance. You have been a great teacher to me; I have learned a lot of things from you. You are an inspiration to me. I would like to do my dissertation under your guidance.

I would like to request you please grant my permission so that I can learn more from you and can complete my dissertation properly. I would like to assure you that I will work hard and will work with all my dedication. Please do grant my permission. I will be highly obliged to you.

For any further information or queries, you can reach to me at (mention phone number) or through an email (mention email address).

Thanking you

Download Template : ( pdf, docs, ODT, RTF, txt, HTML, Epub, Etc )

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Copyright and Your Thesis or Dissertation

  • Introduction
  • Applying the workflow
  • Step 1: Do you need permission?

Step 2: Seek permission if needed

  • Step 3: Non-copyright concerns
  • Step 4: Publication Issues

Research & Instruction Librarians

Profile Photo

⇒ If the copyright holder's permission is needed, how do you get it?

  • If you couldn't answer YES to any question in Step 1, you'll need to seek the copyright holder's permission to include his/her work in your dissertation . Step 2 explains how to seek that permission.

⇒ Research & locate the copyright holder

In many cases, requesting permission to use published materials is straightforward. It’s best to start with the article or book publishers’ websites, which often have Web forms for making such requests. For example,  here is IEEE's page  spelling out how to make publication re-use requests.

In other cases, you might need to do some digging first to identify the copyright holder. Below are some suggestions if you need help. For more background, you may also wish to check out  Peter  Hirtle's   Copyright & Cultural Institutions, Chapter 8 .

U.S. Copyright Office Database :  Search a public database of all works registered with the U.S. Copyright Office after Jan. 1, 1978.

Materials from an Archive or Library Special Collections:  It is possible (though not guaranteed) that the library or archive you used has donor information (if the donor was also the copyright holder), or transfer data that accompanied the acquisition of the collection.

WATCH File :  The Writers, Artists, and Their Copyright Holders database contains primarily the names and addresses of copyright holders or contact persons for authors and artists whose archives are housed, in whole or in part, in libraries and archives in North America and the U.K.

Copyright Clearance Center :  Commercial services like  the Copyright Clearance Center can , for a fee, streamline the process by searching for the rights holder and  securing the license for you.

⇒ Ask for permission in writing, and covering intended uses

  • Remember that your dissertation will be submitted to ProQuest  and  a copy will be available online. So, when you contact the rights holder for a license, be sure that the rights you obtain cover online distribution. In addition, you may wish to request in advance worldwide rights for all formats if you intend to publish a subsequent book or articles using the same material; alternatively, you could go back to the rights holder later and ask for permission for these subsequent publications.
  • Be sure to ask for permission in writing and keep records for your files, just as you did with a fair use analysis. This will be important not just if the copyright holder later challenges your use, but also if your later publisher asks to see these conveyances of permission. Written requests (even if unanswered) can at times also be considered evidence of good faith should your use be challenged. 
  • Columbia University: Permission letter examples
  • George Washington University Library: Sample permission letter
  • UCLA Library: Sample permission letter
  • The University of Michigan also has an  excellent guide  on securing permissions for copyrighted resources--including for films, book chapters, music, fine art, photos, and more.
  • Keep in mind that, even if you believe your use would be fair regardless of whether you're subsequently publishing commercially, your  publisher  may require you to secure permissions merely as a matter of policy.   Ultimately, you'll have to make a judgment call about whether, in anticipation of future book publishing needs, you choose to ask copyright holders  now  for their permission to publish both in your dissertation and all subsequent commercial endeavors.

⇒ Silence is not permission

  • If you do not hear back in response to your request, this does not mean you automatically have rights to publish the material; a copyright holder can still later challenge your use. A copyright holder's silence turns the situation into one of risk assessment for you--you'll have to consider whether to keep seeking permission, the likelihood (or not) of the rights holder challenging your use, and (possibly) whether to use different material or leave it out.

⇒ Plan ahead

  • It can take weeks (or months) to hear back from rights holders. And, remember you need to go through this permission process for each copyrighted work that you're using beyond fair use. So, it's best to get started early with permissions-seeking in the research and writing process

Jump to workflow steps

Apply the workflow

Step 1:  Do you need permission?

Step 2:  Seek permission if needed.

Step 3:  Address non-copyright concerns.

Step 4:  Address publication issues.

  • << Previous: Step 1: Do you need permission?
  • Next: Step 3: Non-copyright concerns >>
  • Last Updated: Feb 27, 2024 12:58 PM
  • URL: https://researchguides.njit.edu/copyright_dissertation

Home » Letters » Permission Letters » Letter Seeking Permission to Conduct Research – Sample Letter Requesting Permission to do Research

Letter Seeking Permission to Conduct Research – Sample Letter Requesting Permission to do Research

permission letter for thesis research

Table of Contents:

  • Sample Letter

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How to use live assistant, additional template options, download options, share via email, share via whatsapp, copy to clipboard, print letter, sample letter requesting permission to do research.

To, The Supervisor, __________ (University Name), __________ (University’s Address)

Date: __/__/____ (Date)

Subject: Permission to conduct research

Respected Sir / Madam,

Respected, I am ____________ (Name) studying in ___________ (Department) in your esteemed ____________ university/ affiliated college (University/College’s Name).

Respectfully, I would bring into your kind concern that I want to conduct a research for ___________ (Research- Course Name) which involves _____________ (Name of the research). For the same I will be requiring _____________ (Required Material) and ____________ (Covered fields) fields will be covered in my research.

I am writing this letter to seek your permission and allowance for the above-said research. This research will be conducted under the guidance of Mr./Mrs./Ms. ____________ (Name of the Professor).

I shall be highly obliged if you look into this matter and approve my request.

Thanking you, Yours ____________ (Truly/ obediently), _________ (Your Name), _________ (Department), _________ (Contact Number)

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The Live Assistant feature is represented by a real-time preview functionality. Here’s how to use it:

  • Start Typing: Enter your letter content in the "Letter Input" textarea.
  • Live Preview: As you type, the content of your letter will be displayed in the "Live Preview" section below the textarea. This feature converts newline characters in the textarea into <br> tags in HTML for better readability.

The letter writing editor allows you to start with predefined templates for drafting your letters:

  • Choose a Template: Click one of the template buttons ("Start with Sample Template 1", "Start with Sample Template 2", or "Start with Sample Template 3").
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Click the "Download Letter" button after composing your letter. This triggers a download of a file containing the content of your letter.

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Click the "Share via WhatsApp" button after you've composed your letter. Your default browser will open a new tab prompting you to send the letter as a message to a contact on WhatsApp.

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  • Copy to Clipboard: Click the "Copy to Clipboard" button after composing your letter.
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  • A: Yes, it's essential to clearly outline the purpose and scope of your research to provide context to the supervisor.
  • A: Yes, mentioning the professor's name adds credibility and clarifies the supervision arrangement.
  • A: Provide enough detail to convey the scope and objectives of the research without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary information.
  • A: If there are any additional documents or proposals related to the research, it's advisable to include them for the supervisor's reference.
  • A: Maintain a respectful and professional tone throughout the letter, expressing gratitude for the supervisor's consideration and approval.

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Thursday, February 23: The Clark Library is closed today.

Tests & Measures: Requesting Permissions

  • Finding Tests in APA PsycTESTS
  • Finding Tests in Dissertations
  • APA PsycINFO
  • Finding Tests in Books
  • Finding Test Reviews
  • Requesting Permissions

Requesting Permission

Every instrument is protected by copyright or by a license agreement.  If you want to use instruments such as surveys, questionnaires, interview questions, or tests created by people other than yourself, you must obtain the permission of the copyright holder or follow usage terms of the instrument license. Remember that permission is not the same as attribution.  It is still necessary to cite the author of the instrument you use.

Obtaining Permission

In general, the permissions process involves five steps:

  • Determine if information is available about the usage terms for the instrument. If the instrument is licensed review the terms of usage contained in the license.
  • If no information about usage is available, then identify the copyright holder. This could be an individual, a company, or an organization.
  • Identify the rights that you will be asking for from the copyright holder. You will want to specify how you intend to use the instrument.
  • Email the company, individual, or organization that owns the copyright for the instrument.  Negotiate payment if necessary. Be specific in your request.
  • Ask for permissions in writing; save copies of the emails and granted permissions.

Additional Resources

  • Ethical Considerations Tests and Measures (Walden University)
  • Finding Information about Psychological Tests (American Psychological Association)
  • Permissions to Use and Reproduce Instruments in a Thesis/Dissertation (Oklahoma State University)
  • Permissions to Use and Reproduce Instruments in a Thesis/Dissertation (University of Houston)

1. Determine if usage information is clearly noted.

All instruments are copyrighted. Sometimes you will see clear instructions to obtain permission to use the instrument. For example, the image below shows that in the APA PsycTESTS database the instructions are found under "Permissions." Other instruments are licensed and the license accompanying the instrument will indicate the manner in which the instrument may be used. Some instruments do not clearly state usage permissions.

permission letter for thesis research

Link to the above record: https://login.uportland.idm.oclc.org/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=pst&AN=9999-36090-000&site=ehost-live&scope=site

2. Determine the Copyright Holder

Locating the copyright holder can sometimes be difficult.

If you located the instrument in a dissertation, contact the author of the dissertation to find out if they are the copyright holder or if they obtained permission elsewhere.   

If you located the instrument in a database such as APA PsycTests, check the permissions section  for each instrument.  Some options include: Contact Publisher, May use for Research/Teaching, and Contact Publisher and Corresponding Author.

If you located the instrument on a company website, contact the company.

In each case, you will need to locate the person/entity holding the copyright in order to ask for the permissions you need.

3. Identify the rights you need to request from the copyright holder

Determine which rights you wish to request from the copyright holder:

  • Do you want to duplicate and distribute the survey?
  • Do you want to add additional questions to a survey or change some of the questions (e.g., create a derivative work)?
  • Do you want to publish the survey in your dissertation?

Be specific about what you will be doing with the copyright holder's work. The answers to these questions will determine the rights for which you will want to obtain permission. 

4. Request Permission

Here are two sample letters for requesting permission to use an instrument.  These are just samples, use them to create your own email to request the permissions you need.

  • Missouri Baptist University
  • Oklahoma State University

5. Keep track of permissions

Save copies of your emails in your project file.  You will want to document that you have received permission to use the work. 

If the instrument you will be using indicates terms of usage, save a copy of that information as well and use the instrument in the manner designated. 

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Copyright Permission Instructions and Sample Letter

If the material has been published, a letter of permission from the publisher must be obtained allowing the student to use the work in the thesis or dissertation. Students should inform the copyright holder that the manuscript is being submitted to Indiana University of Pennsylvania and will be available in the library. In addition, copies of the dissertation will be sold on demand by ProQuest Information and Learning Company (formerly UMI).

  • An extra copy of the letter must be provided to the Thesis/Dissertation Office. This copy will be sent to ProQuest with the Doctoral Dissertation Agreement form.
  • In addition, proper credit (as instructed in the letter of permission) must be given in the text.

Proper Acknowledgement in the Text

When material is taken from a copyrighted source, proper credit must be given on the first page of the chapter or section containing the material. This statement is placed at the bottom of the page as a footnote. The note should be single spaced, asterisked (add an asterisk at the end of the chapter title at top of the page also), and include mention of permission from the copyright holder to reprint. It may also include a copyright notice (and it must if requested to do so). The wording of the note is sometimes given in the letter from the publisher granting permission to reprint. If so, follow it exactly, filling in the particulars. If not, give enough information to clearly identify the work.

The following are samples for reprinting from a journal and from a book (note: information to be filled in is in all capital letters. Do not use all caps on text page):

  • When reprinting from a journal: *Reprinted with permission from "TITLE OF ARTICLE" by AUTHOR'S NAME, YEAR. JOURNAL NAME, VOLUME, PAGE RANGE. COPYRIGHT YEAR by NAME OF COPYRIGHT HOLDER.
  • When reprinting from a book: *Reprinted with permission from TITLE OF BOOK, by AUTHOR'S NAME, YEAR, PUBLISHER'S NAME, LOCATION OF PUBLISHER. COPYRIGHT YEAR by NAME OF COPYRIGHT HOLDER.

If only part of the chapter is from a copyrighted source, the note may be worded to reflect the fact. For example: "Part of the data reported in this chapter is reprinted with permission..." or "Part of this chapter is reprinted with permission..."

If parts of the published article appear in several chapters, the footnote will appear at the bottom of the first page of each chapter in which the material appears. (See previous paragraph for proper wording.)

The particular style (italics, quotation marks, volume and page information, etc.) will follow the style of your reference section.

Sample Request for Letter of Permission

Journal Name Journal Address

To Whom It May Concern:

of the material from . The dissertation will be made available to the public through Indiana University of Pennsylvania's library. In addition, the dissertation will be microfilmed by ProQuest Information and Learning (formerly UMI), and copies of the dissertation will be sold on demand. Please supply a signed letter granting me permission to use the work. You can mail or fax the permission to &lt;address/number&gt;.

Thank you for your help. Sincerely,

  • School of Graduate Studies and Research
  • 101 Stright Hall 210 South Tenth Street Indiana, PA 15705
  • Phone: 724-357-4511
  • Fax: 724-357-2715

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Instrument Permission documents

permission letter for thesis research

Instrument Permissions FAQ

Download a pdf of this faq  , download the template permission letter, permissions to use and reproduce instruments in a thesis/dissertation frequently asked questions, why might i need permission to use an instrument in my thesis/dissertation.

  • Determine whether you need permission
  • Identify the copyright holder
  • Ask for permission
  • Keep a record
  • What if I can't locate the copyright holder?

If you want to use surveys, questionnaires, interview questions, tests, measures, or other instruments created by other people, you are required to locate and follow usage permissions. The instrument may be protected by copyright and/or licensing restrictions.

Copyright Protection

Copyright provides authors of original creative work with limited control over the reproduction and distribution of that work. Under United States law, all original expressions that are “fixed in a tangible medium” are automatically protected by copyright at the time of their creation. In other words, it is not necessary to formally state a declaration of copyright, to use the © symbol, or to register with the United States Copyright Office.

Therefore, you must assume that any material you find is copyrighted, unless you have evidence otherwise. This is the case whether you find the instrument openly on the web, in a library database, or reproduced in a journal article. It is your legal and ethical responsibility to obtain permission to use, modify, and/or reproduce the instrument.

If you use and/or reproduce material in your thesis/dissertation beyond the limits outlined by the “fair use” doctrine, which allows for limited use of a work, without first gaining the copyright holder’s permission, you may be infringing copyright.

Licensing/Terms of Use

Some instruments are explicitly distributed under a license agreement or terms of use. Unlike copyright, which applies automatically, users must agree to these terms in order to use the instrument. In exchange for abiding by the terms, the copyright holder grants the licensee specific and limited rights, such as the right to use the instrument in scholarly research, or to reproduce the instrument in a publication.

When you ask a copyright holder for permission to use or reproduce an instrument, you are in effect asking for a license to do those things.

How do I know if I need permission to use instruments in my thesis/dissertation research? (Adapted from Hathcock & Crews )

Follow the four-step process below:

1. Determine whether you need permission

There are different levels of permissions for using an instrument:

a)  No permission required

i. The copyright holder has explicitly licensed the use of instrument for any purpose, without requiring you to obtain permission.

ii. If you are only using a limited portion of the instrument, your use may be covered under the Fair Use Doctrine. See more here:  https://uhcl.libguides.com/copyright/fairuse .

iii. If the instrument was developed by the federal government or under a government grant it may be in the public domain, and permission is therefore not required.

iv. If the document was created before 1977, it may be in the public domain, and permission is therefore not required. See the Stanford Public Domain Flowchart at https://fairuse.stanford.edu/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/publicdomainflowchart.png .

b)  Non-commercial/educational use: The copyright holder has licensed the instrument only for non-commercial research or educational purposes, without requiring you to obtain the permission of the copyright holder. Any other usage requires permission.

Sample Permission for Educational Use:

Test content may be reproduced and used for non-commercial research and educational purposes without seeking written permission. Distribution must be controlled, meaning only to the participants engaged in the research or enrolled in the educational activity. Any other type of reproduction or distribution of test content is not authorized without written permission from the author and publisher. Always include a credit line that contains the source citation and copyright owner when writing about or using any test.

Source: Marta Soto, “How Permissions Work in PsycTests,” APA Databases & Electronic Resources Blog. American Psychological Association. http://blog.apapubs.org/2016/12/21/how-permissions-work-in-psyctests/ .

Even if you are not required to obtain permission to use the instrument, consider contacting the author for ideas on how to administer and analyze the test. Authors often welcome further use of their work, and may request you send them a copy of your final work.

c)  Permission required:  Instruments that require you to obtain the permission of the copyright holder, regardless of whether the use is for educational or commercial purposes. This may be because the copyright holder

  • has important directions for how the test must be administered and analyzed
  • wants to make sure the most current version is being used
  • charges users a fee in order to administer the test

If you cannot locate the permissions, you are required to identify the copyright holder and contact them to ask about permission to use the instrument.

2. Identify the copyright holder  (Adapted from Crews )

The next step is to identify who owns the copyright. The copyright holder is usually the creator of the work. If the copyright owner is an individual, you will need to do the usual Internet and telephone searches to find the person. Be ready to introduce yourself and to explain carefully what you are seeking.

Some authors transfer copyright to another entity, such as a journal publisher or an organization. In these cases, you must obtain permission from that entity to use or reproduce the instrument. You can often identify the owner by locating a © copyright notice, but as mentioned above, not all copyrighted works have a notice.

Check the following sources to locate instruments, their copyright holders, and their permission statements:

  • Mental Measurements Yearbook: https://uhcl.idm.oclc.org/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?authtype=ip,uid&profile=ehost&defaultdb=mmt
  • PsycTESTS: https://uhcl.idm.oclc.org/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?authtype=ip,uid&profile=ehost&defaultdb=pst
  • Neumann Library Tests & Measures help: https://uhcl.libguides.com/PSYC/tests
  • Library assistance e-mail: [email protected]

​You may need to contact the author or publisher directly to find out who owns the copyright. Publishers often have websites that prescribe a method for contacting the copyright owner, so search the publisher website for a permissions department or contact person. Be sure to confirm the exact name and address of the addressee, and call/e-mail the person or publishing house to confirm the copyright ownership.

  • The copyright owner may prefer or require that permission requests be made using a certain medium (i.e. fax, mail, web form, etc.). If you do not follow instructions, you may not get a reply.
  • Telephone calls may be the quickest method for getting a response from the owner, but they should be followed up with a letter or e-mail in order to document the exact scope of the permission. E-mail permissions are legally acceptable in most cases, but getting a genuine signature is usually best.
  • The request should be sent to the individual copyright holder (when applicable) or permissions department of the publisher in question. Be sure to include your return address, telephone and fax numbers, e-mail address, and the date at the top of your letter or message. If you send the permission request by mail, include a self-addressed, stamped return envelope.
  • Make the process easy for the copyright owner. The less effort the owner has to put forth, the more likely you will get the permission you need. If you are using conventional mail, include a second copy of your request for the owner’s records.
  • State clearly who you are, your institutional affiliation (e.g., University of Houston-Clear Lake), and the general nature of your thesis/dissertation research.

Do not send permissions letters to all possible rightsholders simultaneously. Taking the time to find the person who most likely holds the copyright will better yield success. If you do not have much information about who actually owns the copyright, be honest with your contacts, and they may be able to help you find the right person.

3. Ask for permission  (Adapted from  Crews )

Once you have identified the copyright holder, you must determine the scope of your permission request. Some copyright owners furnish their own permission form that you may download from their website.

If the copyright owner does not provide a permission agreement form, you may write your own letter ( click here to download a template ). Requests should be made in writing; e-mail is fine for this purpose. A most effective letter will include detailed information concerning your request for permission to use the work. Include the following information:

  • Who: Introduce yourself. Tell who you are, your degree program, and a brief overview of your research.
  • Why: Tell why you are contacting that person or entity for permission.
  • What: Be as specific as possible when you cite and describe the instrument you wish to use. Include whether you plan to use the entire instrument, or if you plan on modifying or adapting any of the questions.
  • How: Tell how you plan to use the instrument. Specify the parameters of your research study, and include any important information about the way you will administer the instrument and/or analyze the results.
  • When: Expected length of the project and time to complete the thesis/dissertation.

Important : Obtaining permission to use an instrument is not the same as obtaining permission to reproduce the instrument in your appendix. If you intend on providing a copy of the instrument in an appendix, ask for separate permissions to do that.

Click here to download a template letter . Feel free to modify and adapt this template for your purposes.

4. Keep a record

After securing permission to use and/or reproduce the instrument, save a copy of the correspondence and the agreement. Documentation allows you to demonstrate to others that you have the legal right to use the owner's work. In the unlikely event that your use of the work is ever challenged, you will need to demonstrate your good faith efforts. That challenge could arise far in the future, so keep a permanent file of the records. Moreover, you might need to contact that same copyright owner again for a later use of the work, and your notes from the past will make the task easier.

Upload a copy of your permission letter in Vireo with your thesis/dissertation, or include it as an appendix in the document itself.

What if I can't locate the copyright holder?  (Adapted from Hathcock  & Crews & Pantalony )

In some cases, you may never get a response from the copyright holder or you may never even be able to identify who they are or how to contact them. It can be difficult to know how to proceed when you reach a dead end. Unfortunately, no matter how diligently you have tried to get permission, these efforts cannot completely eliminate the risk of infringement should you proceed to use the work.

Assuming you have diligently investigated your alternatives, do not want to change your project, and remain in need of the elusive copyright permission, the remaining alternative is to explore a risk-benefit analysis. You need to balance the benefits of using that particular material in your given project against the risks that a copyright owner may see your project, identify the materials, and assert the owner’s legal claims against you. Numerous factual circumstances may be important in this evaluation. The “benefit” may depend upon the importance of your project and the importance of using that particular material. The “risks” may depend upon whether your project will be published or available on the Internet for widespread access—as theses and dissertations will. You ought to investigate whether the work is registered with the U.S. Copyright Office and weigh the thoroughness of your search for the copyright owner and your quest for appropriate permission.

Undertaking this analysis can be sensitive and must be advanced with caution and with careful documentation. You may be acting to reduce the risk of liability, but you have not eliminated liability. A copyright owner may still hold rights to the material. Members of the University of Houston-Clear Lake community should consult with their chair or the Neumann Library to discuss their options.

Portions of this FAQ are used and adapted from:

Crews, Kenneth and Rina Elster Pantalony. “Special Cases.” Columbia University Copyright Advisory Services. https://copyright.columbia.edu/basics/special-cases.html . Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).

Crews, Kenneth. “Asking for Permission.” Columbia University Advisory Services. https://copyright.columbia.edu/basics/permissions-and-licensing.html . Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).

Hathcock, April. “Getting Permission.” NYU Libraries Copyright Library Guide, https://guides.nyu.edu/c.php?g=276785&p=1845968 . Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0).

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Research Method

Home » Informed Consent in Research – Types, Templates and Examples

Informed Consent in Research – Types, Templates and Examples

Table of Contents

Informed Consent in Research

Informed Consent in Research

Informed consent is a process of communication between a researcher and a potential participant in which the researcher provides adequate information about the study, its risks and benefits, and the participant voluntarily agrees to participate. It is a cornerstone of ethical research involving human subjects and is intended to protect the rights and welfare of participants.

Types of Informed Consent in Research

There are different types of informed consent in research , which may vary depending on the nature of the study, the type of participants, and the context. Some of the common types of informed consent in research include:

Written Consent

This is the most common type of informed consent, where participants are provided with a written document that explains the study and its requirements. The document typically includes information about the purpose of the study, procedures involved, risks and benefits, confidentiality, and participant rights. Participants are asked to sign the document as an indication of their willingness to participate.

Oral Consent

In some cases, oral consent may be used when a written document is not practical or feasible. Oral consent involves explaining the study and its requirements to participants verbally and obtaining their consent. This method may be used for studies with illiterate or visually impaired participants or when conducting research remotely.

Implied Consent

Implied consent is used in studies where participants’ actions are taken as an indication of their willingness to participate. For example, a participant may be considered to have given implied consent if they show up for a scheduled appointment for the study.

Opt-out Consent

This method is used when participants are given the opportunity to decline participation in a study. Participants are provided with information about the study and are given the option to opt-out if they do not wish to participate. This method is commonly used in population-based studies or surveys.

Assent is used in studies involving minors or participants who are unable to provide informed consent due to cognitive impairment or disability. Assent involves obtaining the agreement of the participant to participate in the study, along with the consent of a legally authorized representative.

Informed Consent Format in Research

Here’s a basic format for informed consent that can be customized for specific research studies:

  • Introduction : Begin by introducing yourself and the purpose of the study. Clearly state that participation is voluntary and that participants can withdraw at any time without penalty.
  • Study Overview : Provide a brief overview of the study, including its purpose, methods, and expected outcomes.
  • Procedures : Describe the procedures involved in the study in clear, concise language. Include information about the types of data that will be collected, how they will be collected, and how long the study will take.
  • Risks and Benefits : Outline the potential risks and benefits of participating in the study. Be honest and upfront about any discomfort, inconvenience, or potential harm that may be involved, as well as any potential benefits.
  • Confidentiality and Privacy : Explain how participant data will be collected, stored, and used, and what measures will be taken to ensure confidentiality and privacy.
  • Voluntary Participation: Emphasize that participation is voluntary and that participants can withdraw at any time without penalty. Explain how to withdraw from the study and who to contact if participants have questions or concerns.
  • Compensation and Incentives: If applicable, explain any compensation or incentives that will be offered to participants for their participation.
  • Contact Information: Provide contact information for the researcher or a representative from the research team who can answer questions and address concerns.
  • Signature : Ask participants to sign and date the consent form to indicate their voluntary agreement to participate in the study.

Informed Consent Templates in Research

Here is an example of an informed consent template that can be used in research studies:

Introduction

You are being invited to participate in a research study. Before you decide whether or not to participate, it is important for you to understand why the research is being done, what your participation will involve, and what risks and benefits may be associated with your participation.

Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this study is [insert purpose of study].

If you agree to participate, you will be asked to [insert procedures involved in the study].

Risks and Benefits

There are several potential risks and benefits associated with participation in this study. Some of the risks include [insert potential risks of participation]. Some of the benefits include [insert potential benefits of participation].

Confidentiality

Your participation in this study will be kept confidential to the extent allowed by law. All data collected during the study will be stored in a secure location and only accessed by authorized personnel. Your name and other identifying information will not be included in any reports or publications resulting from this study.

Voluntary Participation

Your participation in this study is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without penalty. If you choose not to participate or if you withdraw from the study, there will be no negative consequences.

Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns about the study, you can contact the investigator(s) at [insert contact information]. If you have questions about your rights as a research participant, you may contact [insert name of institutional review board and contact information].

Statement of Consent

By signing below, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the information provided in this consent form and that you freely and voluntarily consent to participate in this study.

Participant Signature: _____________________________________ Date: _____________

Investigator Signature: ____________________________________ Date: _____________

Examples of Informed Consent in Research

Here’s an example of informed consent in research:

Title : The Effects of Yoga on Stress and anxiety levels in college students

Introduction :

We are conducting a research study to investigate the effects of yoga on stress and anxiety levels in college students. We are inviting you to participate in this study.

If you agree to participate, you will be asked to attend four yoga classes per week for six weeks. Before and after the six-week period, you will be asked to complete surveys about your stress and anxiety levels. Additionally, we will measure your heart rate variability at the beginning and end of the six-week period.

Risks and Benefits:

There are no known risks associated with participating in this study. However, the benefits of practicing yoga may include decreased stress and anxiety levels, increased flexibility and strength, and improved overall well-being.

Confidentiality:

All information collected during this study will be kept strictly confidential. Your name will not be used in any reports or publications resulting from this study.

Voluntary Participation:

Participation in this study is completely voluntary. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without penalty.

Contact Information:

If you have any questions or concerns about this study, you may contact the principal investigator at (phone number/email address).

By signing this form, I acknowledge that I have read and understood the above information and agree to participate in this study.

Participant Signature: ___________________________

Date: ___________________________

Researcher Signature: ___________________________

Importance of Informed Consent in Research

Here are some reasons why informed consent is important in research:

  • Protection of participants’ rights : Informed consent ensures that participants understand the nature and purpose of the research, the risks and benefits of participating, and their rights as participants. It empowers them to make an informed decision about whether to participate or not.
  • Ethical responsibility : Researchers have an ethical responsibility to respect the autonomy of participants and to protect them from harm. Informed consent is a crucial way to uphold these principles.
  • Legality : Informed consent is a legal requirement in most countries. It is necessary to protect researchers from legal liability and to ensure that research is conducted in accordance with ethical standards.
  • Trust : Informed consent helps build trust between researchers and participants. When participants understand the research process and their role in it, they are more likely to trust the researchers and the study.
  • Quality of research : Informed consent ensures that participants are fully informed about the research and its purpose, which can lead to more accurate and reliable data. This, in turn, can improve the quality of research outcomes.

Purpose of Informed Consent in Research

Informed consent is a critical component of research ethics, and it serves several important purposes, including:

  • Respect for autonomy: Informed consent respects an individual’s right to make decisions about their own health and well-being. It recognizes that individuals have the right to choose whether or not to participate in research, based on their own values, beliefs, and preferences.
  • Protection of participants : Informed consent helps protect research participants from potential harm or risks that may arise from their involvement in a study. By providing participants with information about the study, its risks and benefits, and their rights, they are able to make an informed decision about whether to participate.
  • Transparency: Informed consent promotes transparency in the research process. It ensures that participants are fully informed about the research, including its purpose, methods, and potential outcomes, which helps to build trust between researchers and participants.
  • Legal and ethical requirements: Informed consent is a legal and ethical requirement in most research studies. It ensures that researchers obtain voluntary and informed agreement from participants to participate in the study, which helps to protect the rights and welfare of research participants.

Advantages of Informed Consent in Research

The advantages of informed consent in research are numerous, and some of the most significant benefits include:

  • Protecting participants’ autonomy: Informed consent allows participants to exercise their right to self-determination and make decisions about whether to participate in a study or not. It also ensures that participants are fully informed about the risks, benefits, and implications of participating in the study.
  • Promoting transparency and trust: Informed consent helps build trust between researchers and participants by providing clear and accurate information about the study’s purpose, procedures, and potential outcomes. This transparency promotes open communication and a positive research experience for all parties involved.
  • Reducing the risk of harm: Informed consent ensures that participants are fully aware of any potential risks or side effects associated with the study. This knowledge enables them to make informed decisions about their participation and reduces the likelihood of harm or negative consequences.
  • Ensuring ethical standards are met : Informed consent is a fundamental ethical requirement for conducting research involving human participants. By obtaining informed consent, researchers demonstrate their commitment to upholding ethical principles and standards in their research practices.
  • Facilitating future research : Informed consent enables researchers to collect high-quality data that can be used for future research purposes. It also allows participants to make an informed decision about whether they are willing to participate in future studies.

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HOW TO WRITE A LETTER OF PERMISSION TO CONDUCT RESEARCH IN AN ORGANIZATION

November 5, 2015 By Divine Nwachukwu

For any meaningful and worthwhile to be carried out, data from either a secondary or primary means of data collection are required. In other to gain entrance to organizations understudy to carry out a research, a formal permission has to be employed to enable a welcome reception and a conducive environment for your research.  Writing a letter of permission to conduct research in any organization basically comes in two ways

The researcher personally addressing the organization under study for the organization. Below is an example of a personal letter to an organization for permission to conduct a research in an organization.

No 13 Umoren street, Opp. Gate medical center, Off Aka road, Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State. 20th November, 2015.

The general manager, Union assurance plc, No 33 Oshodi- Apapa Express way, Lagos state. Sir,

REQUEST FOR RESPONSE TO QUESTIONNAIRE I am a student of Higher National Diploma inKaduna state polytechnic, Kaduna State, department of insurance undertaking a research on the topic “Assessment of adequate risk recognition and management in Nigeria insurance companies. You are kindly requested to assist in providing sincere opinion or response to the questions contained in this questionnaire. All information provided will be treated strictly as confidential and purely for academic purpose.Looking forward to your favourable response. Sincerely, (Signature) Okoro Musa Bayo.

The institution of the researcher personally addressing the organization under study for the research/study. Below is an example of an institution to an organization for permission to conduct a research.

Uyo City polytechnic, Department of Accountancy, College of Business and Management studies, P.M.B 2021, Uyo, Akwa Ibom state. 20th November, 2015.

The general manager, Union assurance plc, No 33 Oshodi- Apapa Express way, Lagos state. Dear Sir,

Mr. Inyang Charles is a bona fide student of Uyo City polytechnic, department of accountancy, Akwa Ibom state, currently enrolled in the three year HND program in the field of accountancy. As part of the requirement of the HND degree, he is required to complete the project in the given field. This should identically be a live project on an ongoing problem faced by the organization,under the supervision of a company guide. The objective of the project is to enable students to develop and further the skills and knowledge gained on the course by applying them to the analysis of a specific business problem or issue via a substantial piece of independent work carried out over an extended period. Evaluation of the project will be based on a written report, as well as an oral presentation,after which a certificate of completion should be given by the organization. I would be grateful if an opportunity could be given to Mr. Inyang Charles to work on such a project in your esteemed organization. Looking forward to your positive response.

Sincerely, (Signature) Head- Department of Accounting.

In replying letters of permissions from schools or individuals, most organizations find it difficult drafting responses, especially when the answer is in the affirmative. Below is a guide for organizations replying to institutions or individuals who are seeking to carry out a said research in their firm .

Julius Berger, Head office: 10 shettima A. Utako| Abuja FCT. Tel: +2347069800000 Web: www.julius-berger.com 20th November, 2015.

REF: JB|UYO|HRM|04|02|2015|0024, 25th November, 2015, Mr. Inyang Charles, Department of Accounting, Kaduna state polytechnic. Kaduna state, Nigeria.

Sir, LETTER OF AUTHORIZATION TO CONDUCT RESEARCH AT OUR SITE This letter will serve as authorization of Mr Inyang Charles to conduct the research project entitled “impact of motivation on employees in construction industry of Nigeria” at our uyo permanent site. Upon a review of the letter sent to us by your institution, we are glad to offer you an opportunity to conduct the same study in our organization. All interviews, filed surveys, observations around the site and the distribution of questionnaires are approved and will be duly supervised by the human resource unit. If you have any concerns or require additional information, feel free to contact the unit. Thank you

Yours faithfully, (Signature) Okoro chidi Personal coordinator Julius Berger, Uyo

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You are here, obtaining copyright permission.

The information on this site and from the Office of Scholarly Communication and Publishing at the University Library System is not legal advice and is provided for informational purposes only. The Office of Scholarly Communication and Publishing is not counsel to any members of the Pitt community.

image from Journal of Pragmatics indicating the Get Rights and Content link

Clicking this link will take you to a Copyright Clearance Center page where you can input some basic information. This form will generate a price for your re-use and a license statement that you can print out or save for your records. For a full illustration, watch the video below.

Elsevier, Sage, and Wolters Kluwer (including Lippincot Williams & Wilkins), Taylor & Francis :

If you are the author of an article published by Elsevier or Sage you may not be able to use the Copyright Clearance Center to obtain the necessary permissions. These publishers will only grant you permission to re-use your content non-commercially and the University of Pittsburgh requires you to deposit your ETD with ProQuest Dissertation and Theses. You will need to use the Elsevier Permissions Request Form   or the Sage Permissions Portal in order obtain the necessary permissions. For Wolters Kluwer please email them at  [email protected] or the contact listed for the individual publication

You will want to include the following language along with your permissions request:

D-scholarship@Pitt is the institutional repository for the University of Pittsburgh, and the repository of record for University of Pittsburgh ETDs. Pitt relies on ProQuest for preservation of theses and dissertations. They steward multiple redundant electronic copies of each document.

Elsevier's form is now limited to 300 characters please consider using the following shorter language:

D-scholarship@Pitt is the institutional repository for the University of Pittsburgh. Pitt relies on ProQuest for preservation of theses and dissertations. They steward multiple redundant electronic copies of each document.

If you can't find a form and need to send an e-mail or make a phone call, feel free to use our permissions templates below.

  • Introduction / start of the call. 
  • "Hello, my name is [...] and I am a  graduate student at the University of Pittsburgh working on my dissertation. I am calling today to inquire about permissions to reproduce materials in one of your articles for my dissertation, which will be published and distributed by ProQuest."
  • Give them the information needed.

Hopefully the person will tell you what information they need, and you can read that information from your citation. 

Alternatively, they may direct you to a website or offer to send you an e-mail with permissions information. 

If they do this, ask for THEIR e-mail address so that you can look for their e-mail soon and follow up if you have any questions. 

  • Ask how much it will cost to re-use this material. 
  • "Just one more question, will there be any cost for granting this permission?" 
  • It should be free. If they try to charge you for it, use these responses:
  • "I apologize, but can I clarify that this will be used in a dissertation and I will not profit from this in any way. Is there any way to reduce that charge?"
  • "I am a graduate student with no external funding for this work, and will not profit from this venture. Is there any way that you can grant me permission without a fee?" 
  • If they insist, say "Please go ahead and send me the information by e-mail [give your e-mail address if necessary], and let me consult with my advisor about my options." Then contact us for help and alternative options. 
  • "Hello, my name is [...] and I am a  graduate student at the University of Pittsburgh working on my thesis. I am calling today to inquire about permissions to reproduce materials in one of your articles for my dissertation, which will be made available online as part of our electronic thesis and dissertation program."
  • "I apologize, but can I clarify that this will be used in a [thesis / dissertation] and I will not profit from this in any way. Is there any way to reduce that charge?"

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  1. Thesis Letter Of Permission To Conduct Research Example

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  5. Sample Letter Granting Permission To Conduct Research

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  6. Approval Permission Letter To Conduct Research

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

  1. Permission Letter To Conduct Research: How To Draft It Right!

    A permission letter for research is a crucial document that formally requests authorization to conduct a study in specific locations or collect data from a particular group. It serves as a formal agreement between the researcher and the authority or individuals involved, ensuring that the research is conducted ethically and legally. ...

  2. Permission Request Letter for Data Collection for Research

    A permission request letter is one where an individual, organization, or group is requesting permission to perform an act or obtain information. A Permission request letter for data collection for research is one where someone, such as a college student, is requesting data to complete research work. For instance, if someone is attending ...

  3. PDF Sample Permission Letter Use of Material in A Thesis/Major Research Paper

    Request to reproduce material in a [thesis/major research paper] I am a graduate student at Brock University [in X program - e.g. completing my PhD in Psychology] and am preparing my final [thesis/major research paper]. I would like your permission to include in my [thesis/major research paper] [an excerpt/excerpts] from your

  4. Guides: Copyright: Survey & Instrument Permissions

    How do I know if I need permission to use instruments in my thesis/dissertation research? (Adapted from Hathcock & Crews) There are different levels of permissions for using an instrument: ... telephone and fax numbers, e-mail address, and the date at the top of your letter or message. If you send the permission request by mail, include a self ...

  5. PDF Sample Permission Page

    The title of my thesis/dissertation is [insert name of thesis/dissertation]. I would like your permission to use [excerpt, figures, etc.] from the following in my paper: [insert name of publication] Optional: Explain why the use of this material is necessary for your thesis/dissertation. I will include an acknowledgement of the author and the ...

  6. Permission Letter for Research: 4 Templates

    Template: 1. To, (Name of the sender) (Designation of the respective person) (Name of the address) Subject- letter of permission for research. Respected madam/sir, This letter is to inform (mention the name of the person) that I (mention your name) student of (mention the name of the college or name of the institution) would like to say to you ...

  7. Permission Letter To Conduct Research

    Subject: Request for Permission to Conduct Research. Dear [Recipient's Name], I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. My name is [Your Name], and I am a [your academic/professional background or affiliation] with a keen interest in [briefly describe your area of interest or expertise].

  8. PDF Standard Informed Consent Template for Research

    permission, adult consent, teacher consent, screening consent, etc.). • In this template, "we" refers to the researchers. If there is only one researcher, edit as appropriate. If the PI is a student, always use "we" to include the faculty advisor. • Submit consent documents in MS Word whenever possible. The iMedRIS comparison tool for

  9. Dissertation Permission Letter Template

    In order to write the ideal permission letter, go through the sample letter written by me, using which as a reference you can develop yours successfully. Template: 1. To, (Name of the sender) (Designation of the respective person) (Name of the address) Subject- Letter of Permission for Dissertation. Respected madam/sir,

  10. Step 2: Seek permission if needed

    This will be important not just if the copyright holder later challenges your use, but also if your later publisher asks to see these conveyances of permission. Written requests (even if unanswered) can at times also be considered evidence of good faith should your use be challenged. Here are some useful sample permission request letters:

  11. Letter Seeking Permission to Conduct Research

    How to Use Live Assistant. The Live Assistant feature is represented by a real-time preview functionality. Here's how to use it: Start Typing: Enter your letter content in the "Letter Input" textarea. Live Preview: As you type, the content of your letter will be displayed in the "Live Preview" section below the textarea. This feature converts newline characters in the textarea into <br> tags ...

  12. Tests & Measures: Requesting Permissions

    The answers to these questions will determine the rights for which you will want to obtain permission. 4. Request Permission. Here are two sample letters for requesting permission to use an instrument. These are just samples, use them to create your own email to request the permissions you need. Missouri Baptist University.

  13. Copyright Permission Instructions and Sample Letter

    An extra copy of the letter must be provided to the Thesis/Dissertation Office. This copy will be sent to ProQuest with the Doctoral Dissertation Agreement form. In addition, proper credit (as instructed in the letter of permission) must be given in the text. Proper Acknowledgement in the Text

  14. Research Guides: Dissertation Format and Submission: Getting Survey

    Download the Template Permission Letter Permissions to Use and Reproduce Instruments in a Thesis/Dissertation ... University of Houston-Clear Lake), and the general nature of your thesis/dissertation research. Do not send permissions letters to all possible rightsholders simultaneously. Taking the time to find the person who most likely holds ...

  15. Informed Consent in Research

    Informed Consent in Research. Informed consent is a process of communication between a researcher and a potential participant in which the researcher provides adequate information about the study, its risks and benefits, and the participant voluntarily agrees to participate. It is a cornerstone of ethical research involving human subjects and is intended to protect the rights and welfare of ...

  16. PDF Sample permission letter for a thesis or dissertation

    The excerpts to be reproduced are: letters from W. Bullard to the International Stevedores' Association, printed on page 14, 21 and 39. The requested permission extends to any future revisions of my [thesis / dissertation], to the public circulation of my [thesis /dissertation] by the Saint Mary's University Library, and to the

  17. How to Write a Letter of Permission to Conduct Research in An Organization

    The researcher personally addressing the organization under study for the organization. Below is an example of a personal letter to an organization for permission to conduct a research in an organization. No 13 Umoren street, Opp. Gate medical center, Off Aka road, Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State. 20th November, 2015.

  18. PDF SAMPLE LETTER OF CONSENT

    contact the Office of Research Services at the University of Lethbridge at 403-329-2747 or [email protected]. I have read the above information regarding this research study on the development of skilled limb movements, and consent to participate in this study. I also provide consent for my infant to participate in this study.

  19. Sample consent and permission forms

    Sample consent and permission forms. General consent form to participate in research (DOC) Two stage project consent form (DOC) Parent permission form for research with child (DOC) Child assent form (DOC) Multiple consent form including audio-recording and quotations (DOC) Photo and video consent form (DOC)

  20. Example

    Fax: (041) 451 0193. For attention: Dr Jansen. REQUEST FOR PERMISSION TO CONDUCT RESEARCH IN SCHOOLS. Dear Dr. Jansen. My name is [insert name], and I am a [insert field of study] student at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan. University in Port Elizabeth. The research I wish to conduct for my [e.g. Master's treatise; Master's.

  21. Obtaining Copyright Permission

    Many journal articles have pre-made automatic forms for obtaining permissions. To request re-use of a journal article or material (such as figures or images) in a journal article, you most often need to request permission from the publisher. Most journal articles have a link on the abstract page that says "Get rights and content" (or similar).

  22. Permissions

    Open access content published under a CC-BY user license, as well as open access content published under other types of user licenses depending on the nature of your proposed re-use (for example, commercial vs. nonprofit use), may not require written permission, subject to proper acknowledgement. Permissions vary depending on the license type, and we recommend that readers check the license ...