S.TRUEMAN PhD THESIS 2016

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James Cook University Human Research Ethics approval form could be posted or a scanned copy emailed to them. Following initial contact, if potential participants wished to proceed, this was demonstrated by the receipt of a signed copy of an Informed Consent form by the researcher. Upon receipt of a signed copy of an Informed Consent form arrangements to participate (interviews) in the study were directly negotiated with the potential participant (or through their administrative personnel, e.g., personal assistant, secretary). If the researcher did not receive a signed consent form arising from the initial contact, he did not attempt to make contact either in writing or by telephone with that individual. The reason for this inaction was that the researcher did not wish to, in anyway whatsoever, appear to be applying ‘pressure’ on potential participants to partake in the study. 5.4.5 Arranging interviews Once a participant agreed to take part in the study, the researcher either in writing and/or by telephone, negotiated a mutually convenient time for an interview. These discussions elicited whether the interview was to be conducted in person or by telephone, confirming the tape recording of the interview and ensuring that the participant was aware when specifying a time, that the anticipated duration of the interview would be approximately 35 to 50 minutes. Upon an agreed interview time, the researcher emailed confirmation. The day before the scheduled interview the researcher contacted the participant by phone and/or email to confirm, and if necessary remind the participant of the scheduled interview time (and if necessary, location). On some occasions the researcher had to confirm the interview shortly before the scheduled time, by telephone; these often involved participants