Blogger Survey

The purpose of this study is to examine how individuals come to perceive bloggers as being credible. This study will enable researchers to understand how perceptions of source-credibility have changed due to sources being online. There are no anticipated risks for this study. Although the study is not expected to benefit subjects directly, the study will contribute to the general store of communication knowledge.

All information in the study will be anonymous because of the random digit identifier that the subject pool assigned to you. Do not report any identifying information about yourself such as your name anywhere on the experimental materials or to the researcher. Data will be stored securely and locked in 293 Communications Building. They will be made available only to persons conducting the study unless participants specifically give permission in writing to do otherwise. No reference will be made in oral or written reports which could link participants to the study because that data will be unavailable given the design of the study. Your participation in this study is voluntary. If you decide to participate, you may withdraw from the study at any time without loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled. You must be 18 or over to participate in this study.

If you have questions at any time about the study or the procedures, you may contact the researcher, Aaron Sachs at asachs@utk.edu at (865) 408-8617. If you have questions about your rights as a subject, contact the Office of Research Compliance Officer at: (865) 974-3466.