Frequently Asked Questions

How many times will I need to come in?

For most studies, participation involves only one session of testing, which typically lasts about 3 hours. We might be conducting longer studies in the future, however, which involve up to a week of testing. Following some studies, we will ask if we may contact you about participating again in the future. Of course, future participation is not mandatory and is at your discretion.

What are the rewards of participation?

In addition to financial compensation, participation includes less direct benefits. You will learn more about how learning and memory changes with age, from reading material I will provide you after participation. You will know that you are contributing to important scientific advances. You will interact with your peers as well as with research associates. You will certainly have our appreciation! After all, it is through the generosity and input of volunteers that I am able to gain valuable insight into ways of helping people learn and solve problems more effectively.

Can I come in with a friend?

Please tell the scheduler that you are interested in doing this, and if possible s/he will set up a time for both of you to come in together.

What days/times are you available to run the study?

We try to be as flexible as possible in scheduling sessions. We have many times available at different times of day during the week, and can set up sessions on weekends if required. After you are placed on our participant list, a scheduler will contact you when our next study begins to set up a time that is best for you.

Can you come to me to run the study or do I have to go to UNCG?

Currently, it is necessary that our participants come to UNCG in order to be a part of the study. Clear directions will be given and the researcher will meet you upon your arrival. For future research, we might be able to come to you – stay tuned!

What if I need to reschedule my appointment?

If you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment, it is important that you call 336-256-0038 or email us (adult.cognition@gmail.com) at least 24 hours in advance. We can then work out another time for you to come in and participate.

Is participation risky or painful?

No. You will primarily complete tasks that measure your cognitive abilities, such as attention and memory. To gather health information, we might ask you to complete a survey of questions. We might also check your vision by having you read a chart. Some of our studies use a small camera worn on a headband to examine your eye movements while completing tasks; this can be more tiring than most of our studies so we will let you know before scheduling if it is such a study. None of our tests are painful. You will likely be tested while sitting at a computer (although no computer experience is necessary), and will be offered frequent breaks in case you want to stretch your fingers or relax your mind. You are certainly free to discontinue testing at any point if you feel uncomfortable.

What if I perform badly on the tests?

Don’t worry. These tests vary in difficulty – some are quite easy while others are very hard. If you have difficulty, it is probably the nature of the task rather than a reflection on your ability. Just do your best. Our tests are not intended as a substitute for medical testing, and we are not licensed to practice medicine. If you are very concerned about your performance, you should contact your physician.

Will I be contacted about the results of this study?

If you are interested in seeing the results of this study, please let us know at the testing session. Completing a project from the data collection phase through publication can take months and often even years, so please be patient!