Information Sheet for Survey Respondents

Thank you for your interest in participating in this project. Please read this information sheet carefully before deciding whether to participate. If you decide to participate in this survey, we thank you. However, if you decide not to take part, there will be no disadvantage to you of any kind and we thank you for the consideration.
What is the aim of this survey?
This survey aims to understand the perspective of policy makers and scientists/researchers on the use of scientific knowledge, as well as the role of scientists/researchers in policy-making. This survey is part of a study commissioned by the International Network for Government Science Advice (INGSA) to map the state of and capacity for science advice in Asia.
Who we are looking for?
This survey seeks to engage policy practitioners and scientists/researchers in Asia (aged 18 and above).
What will participants be asked to do?
Should you agree to take part in this study, you will be asked to participate in an online survey which should take about 10 minutes, depending on your reading speed and comprehension.
What sort of data/information that will be collected and what will be the potential use of it?
The survey contains general questions that will contribute towards understanding of policy maker’s and scientist’s/researcher’s perspectives on the use of scientific knowledge, as well as the role of scientists/researchers in policymaking. No personal details such as email addresses or any other personal identifying information will be collected in this survey unless requested. All your responses are kept confidential and will only be assessed by the researchers in this project. Do note that the results of this survey will be stored by Sunway University and may be used in any future research or follow-up studies. The results stemming from this survey may be published in the form of report(s), journal articles, popular science journals and/or online articles.
Can participants change their mind and withdraw from the study?
You may withdraw from participation in the study at any time and without any disadvantage to yourself.
Will I benefit from participating in this study? 
You will receive no direct benefit from this study. However, your contribution towards this study may help in bridging the communication gap between policy makers and scientists/researchers.
Will I receive any compensation from participating in this study?
No financial reimbursements or recruitment incentives will be given to participants.
How is the anonymity and confidentiality of data collection and records protected?
All information collected through the survey will be kept strictly confidential, stored in a secure and locked office, and on a password protected database. Anonymized data may also be stored in data archives for future researchers interested in this area. If requested by you, your personal data (address, telephone number) will be kept after the end of the study so that we are able to contact you about the findings of the study and possible follow-up studies (unless you advise us that you do not wish to be contacted).  All research data will be kept securely for 7 years.  After this time your data will be disposed of securely.  During this time all precautions will be taken by all those involved to maintain your confidentiality, only members of the research team will have access to your data.
What if participants have any questions?
If you have any questions about the study or with regards to this survey and/or ethics-related enquiries, please contact:

Professor Dr Abhi Veerakumarasivam                     
Principal Investigator                                                  
abhiv@sunway.edu.my   
+603-7491 8622 ext 7175

Esther Erin                                         
Research Associate
esther.erin@council.science
The research summary will be available in due time and if you wish to be updated with the outcomes of this research, you will be given an option to enter your email address at the end of the survey.
By clicking next, you have read the disclaimers above and consent to participate in this study.
 
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