Government agencies, foundations and individuals annually award SMU more than $11 million for research and sponsored projects in fields ranging from biology to theology, from engineering to the arts.

Sample Verbal Script

[for recruiting project participants from classrooms, through telephone surveys, and by personal contact]

I am a professor [a graduate student under the direction of Professor ________________] in the Department/Division/College of ___________________at Southern Methodist University. I am conducting a research study to _____(state purpose of study) ______________________.

I am recruiting subjects to ____(explain procedures)___________________________________ which will take approximately ____________(time estimate)___________________________________.

Your participation in this study is voluntary. If you choose not to participate or to withdraw from the study at any time, there will be no penalty, (it will not affect your grade, treatment/care, select whichever applies). The results of the research may be published, but your name will not be used.

If you have any questions concerning this research study, you may call [name and position] at (***) ***-**** and (e-mail address), if available).

NOTE: If data collection involves audiotape/videotape of activites, any verbal script consent letter/form, assent or information letter must advise subjects that the activities will be audiotaped/videotaped and the disposition of tapes (i.e., where stored, how long they will be kept and when they will be destroyed).