Informed Consent to Participate in Research

Study Title:
Enhancing Resource Utilization in Transition Planning for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students with Disabilities from Underserved Communities

Researcher: Maria Ortiz – University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
IRB #: 25.209

We’re inviting you to participate in a research study. Participation is completely voluntary. You can change your mind at any time without consequences.

What is the purpose of this study?
This study explores the barriers families of students with disabilities face when accessing community resources during and after the K-12 to adulthood transition. It aims to identify gaps and inform educators and service providers on better supporting families, including those from BIPOC communities.

What will I do?
Participants will complete an online survey (via SurveyMonkey) with multiple-choice and open-ended questions about their experiences. Participation is voluntary, and you may skip any question. You may also volunteer for a follow-up interview; held privately at a location you choose.


Risks and Minimization Measures:
  • Emotional Discomfort: Some questions may be sensitive. You can skip any question or withdraw without penalty. A list of local support services will be provided.
  • Confidentiality Concerns - Surveys are anonymous. Interviews will collect limited identifying information, which will be de-identified and stored securely.
    No personal identifiers (e.g., name, phone number) or legal status questions will be collected.
What if I am harmed because I was in this study?
There are no known risks of harm from participating in this study. However, if you experience distress or discomfort, you may stop participating at any time. If you need immediate assistance, contact 911 or your doctor. We can also help connect you with psychological support resources. Any treatment costs will be your responsibility.


Other Study Information
  • Participation in this study is completely voluntary. You may withdraw at any time.
  • The estimated time to complete the survey is approximately 15-20 minutes.
  • If selected for an interview, it will last approximately 30-45 minutes.
  • No compensation is provided, but your input will help improve access to resources for students with disabilities.

Data Security
  • Survey responses: Stored securely on encrypted, password-protected SurveyMonkey systems (Access: Maria Ortiz, Advisor, Dr. Laura Owens).
  • Interview notes: Stored in a locked drawer (Access: Maria Ortiz).
  • All identifying information will be replaced with participant codes.
  • Only authorized researchers will access the data.
Estimated Data Disposal Date: Data will be deleted one year after the end of the study (May 2026).

Who might see my data and why?
  • The researcher to conduct the study and analyze the data
  • The IRB (Institutional Review Board) at UWM - to ensure we’re following laws and ethical guidelines
  • Public - We plan to share our findings in publications or presentations. You will not be identified by name.

If you have questions about the research, complaints, or issues:
Maria Ortiz - Mlortiz@uwm.edu

If you have questions about your rights as a research participant, complaints, or problems:
Contact the UWM IRB (Institutional Review Board) at 414-662-3544 / irbinfo@uwm.edu.

Agreement to Participate
Your participation is completely voluntary, and you may withdraw at any time. To take this survey, you must be:
• At least 18 years old

Question Title

* 1. Are you at least 18 years of age

Question Title

* 2. If you meet the above criteria, do you consent to participate in this survey?