CONCISE SUMMARY
This study aims to investigate how on-the-job neuro-inclusivity training can address knowledge gaps in Teen Services Library Staff's formal MLS/MLIS education regarding the creation of welcoming and inclusive spaces for neurodivergent teen patrons in public libraries. Specifically, it focuses on improving library services for teens aged 12-19 who are formally or self-diagnosed with autism or other brain-related disabilities. By evaluating the effectiveness of targeted training, this research seeks to inform professional development initiatives and library practices that better serve neurodivergent teens. Participation in this study will involve completing an initial survey. Some participants will be invited to complete a second survey after receiving on-the-job training. Each survey is estimated to take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. Additionally, the training session will last approximately 90 minutes.
Why am I being asked?
You are being asked to be a participant in a research study about how on-the-job neuro-inclusivity training can address knowledge gaps in Teen Librarians' formal education regarding the creation of welcoming and inclusive spaces for neurodivergent teen patrons in public libraries conducted by Lauren Watson at Purdue University Global. You have been asked to participate in the research because you are a Librarian and may have valuable insights into the training and educational needs related to serving neurodivergent teens in public libraries and may be eligible to participate. We ask that you read this form and ask any questions you may have before agreeing to be in the research.
Your participation in this research is voluntary. Your decision whether or not to participate will not affect your current or future relations with Purdue University Global. If you decide to participate, you are free to withdraw at any time without affecting that relationship.
What is the purpose of this research?
The purpose of this research is:
To find out how on-the-job training can help Teen Librarians better support neurodivergent teens in public libraries. We want to see if this training can fill in any gaps from their library school education, so they feel more confident in creating welcoming and inclusive spaces for teens with autism or other brain-based differences.
What procedures are involved?
If you agree to be in this research, we would ask you to do the following things:
You will complete one online survey. Some participants will then be invited to attend a neuro-inclusivity training session and share feedback on the training via a second survey. We estimate that the surveys will take 15-20 minutes each and the training itself will take 90 minutes.
Approximately 50 participants may be involved in this research at Purdue University Global.
What are the potential risks and discomforts?
The research may:
pose minimal risks. You may experience mild discomfort when reflecting on your current knowledge or practices related to neuro-inclusivity. Survey responses will remain anonymous, and you can withdraw from the study at any time without any negative consequences.
Are there benefits to taking part in the research?
Taking part in this research may increase your confidence and skills in creating neuro-inclusive environments within public library teen spaces. The study will also contribute to improving library services for neurodivergent teens, promoting inclusivity and equitable access. While there is no direct payment for participation, the knowledge gained and the potential to improve library services for neurodivergent teens can be considered a benefit.
What about privacy and confidentiality?
The only people who will know that you are a research subject are members of the research team. No information about you or provided by you during the research will be disclosed to others without your written permission. When the results of the research are published or discussed at conferences, no information will be included that would reveal your identity.
Any information that is obtained in connection with this study and that can be identified with you will remain confidential and will be disclosed only with your permission or as required by law. This survey does not collect IP addresses or other personal information. All research data is encrypted, only stored on a flashdrive, and only accessed on password-protected devices to prevent access by unauthorized personnel. All survey responses are linked to randomized and automatically generated Participant ID numbers rather than names or other personal identifiers. Individual responses to surveys will be securely stored for five (5) years, then destroyed following analyses of the data. No other uses of the data are contemplated beyond this study. If any other uses of the data are contemplated beyond this study in the future, participants will be informed and separate consent will be obtained.
Will I be reimbursed for any of my expenses or paid for my participation in this research?
Participants in this study will not be paid or offered other gifts.
Can I withdraw from the study?
You can choose whether to be in this study or not. If you volunteer to be in this study, you may withdraw at any time without consequences of any kind. You may also refuse to answer any questions you don’t want to answer and still remain in the study.
Who should I contact if I have questions?
The researcher conducting this study is Lauren Watson. You may ask any questions you have now. If you have questions later, you may contact the researcher at: Phone: 704-779-0249
You may reach the project chair, Dr. Tzipora Katz, at: Phone: 609-605-2845
What are my rights as a research subject?
If you feel you have not been treated according to the descriptions in this form, or you have any questions about your rights as a research subject, you may contact the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at Purdue University through one of the following representatives:
Dr. Susan Pettine, IRB Chair
Email: spettine@purdueglobal.edu
Remember: Your participation in this research is voluntary. Your decision whether or not to participate will not affect your current or future relations with the University. If you decide to participate, you are free to withdraw at any time without affecting that relationship.