Active Research

“The Effects of Sustained Virtual Working on Worker Productivity During the COVID-19 Pandemic”

We are trying to determine the effects of long-term teleworking on productivity!
Can be taken once a week if you like, we want to track perception over time! Feel free to share too!
Hello,
You are being invited to participate in a research study titled “The Effects of Sustained Virtual Working on Worker Productivity During the COVID-19 Pandemic”. This study is being done by Dr. Carmine Gibaldi (St. John’s University/Harvard University Extension School) and Ryan McCreedy (Harvard University Extension School).
Study link: http://irsurveys.stjohns.edu/S11/WorkingRemotely20/

Why are we doing this research study?
Productivity of virtual working (using computers/technology to work from home) has been a topic of debate for years and, given the current global pandemic, employees and employers around the world are working virtually at unprecedented rates. The purpose of this research study is to determine if employees feel that their productivity increases over time as they continuously work from home.

Who can participate in this research study?
Any adult, over the age of 18, that is working virtually and has an internet connection may participate.

What will I be asked to do and how much time will it take?
If you agree to take part in this study, you will be asked to complete an online survey/questionnaire.  This survey/questionnaire will ask about your experiences while working virtually, in the form of multiple choice and free response questions, and it will take you approximately 8 minutes to complete.

Will being in this research study help me in any way?
This study aims to advance the knowledge of our society surrounding virtual working. You may not directly benefit from this research; however, we hope that your participation in the study may result in more flexible working accommodations to employees in the future.  

What are my risks of being in this research study?
We believe there are minimal risks associated with this research study; however, a risk of breach of confidentiality always exists and we have taken the steps to minimize this risk as outlined in a section below.

How will my personal information be protected?
To the best of our ability, your answers in this study will remain confidential.  We will minimize any risks by not collecting any personally identifiable information, using a secure and password protected data collection medium, and only allowing the research team to access any collected information.

What happens if I say yes, but I change my mind later?
You do not have to be in this study if you do not want to. If you agree to be in the study, but later change your mind, you may drop out at any time. There are no penalties or consequences of any kind if you decide that you do not want to participate.

Who can I talk to if I have questions?
If you have questions about this project or if you have a research-related problem, you may contact the researchers, Dr. Carmine Gibaldi (gibaldic@stjohns.edu) or Ryan McCreedy (rym262@g.harvard.edu).

**By clicking “submit” on the survey you are indicating that you are at least 18 years old, have read this consent form, and agree to participate in this research study. You are free to skip any question that you choose. Please print a copy of this page for your records.**