Understanding Our Research Study: Key Information
- endsight21
- Aug 21, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 30
Understanding the key elements of a research study can help you appreciate its value and significance. In this blog post, we will break down the essential components of our research study so you know what to expect, why it matters, and how your participation helps create positive change.
Research is not just about numbers and data. It is about people, lived experiences, and using that knowledge to support healthier communities.
Let’s dive into the key aspects of our research study.
What is the Purpose of the Study?
Every research study has a purpose - the reason it exists.
The purpose of this study is to better understand how young adults use e-cigarettes, how flavors, device types, and nicotine concentration influence e-cigarette use and the potential for addiction.
Your participation truly matters! What you share will help shape future research, education, and policies that support young people's health. Every response contributes to a bigger picture that can lead to meaningful change.
Who is Involved in the Study?
Several groups work together to make this research possible.
Researchers: These are the individuals conducting the study. They obtain funding for the research, design the research, collect data, and analyze the results. The principal investigator or lead researcher of this study is Dr. Emily Hébert. Emily is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Dr. Stephanie Clendennen is the study manager.
Participants: These are the people who take part in the study. They provide valuable information that helps researchers draw conclusions. This is you!
Supporting Organizations: Sometimes, studies are supported by organizations that provide funding or resources. This study is supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
What Methods are Used?
Different research questions require different methods. In this study, data are collected primarily through online and mobile phone surveys completed by participants.
Surveys allow us to gather information efficiently and securely, while giving participants the flexibility to respond on their own time.
What is the Timeline?
Every research study has a timeline. This outlines when different phases of the study will take place. Typical study phases include:
Preparation Phase: This is when researchers design the study and recruit participants.
Data Collection Phase: This is when researchers gather information from participants.
Analysis Phase: After data collection, researchers analyze the information to draw conclusions.
Reporting Phase: Finally, researchers share their findings with the public.
Understanding the timeline helps participants know what to expect and when.
Your involvement in this study, The Data Collection Phase, will last approximately 3 years with participants completing the following activities every 6 months:
Take a 2 minute survey on an app twice each day for 30 days.
Take a 15 minute online survey at the end of the 30 days.
Take an at-home saliva test and upload a photo of the results.
What are the Benefits of Participation?
Participating in a research study can offer several benefits.
Contribution to Knowledge: By participating, you are helping to advance knowledge in a specific field.
Compensation: Participants will receive compensation for their time and effort. Up to $150 per 6-month study period and up to $1,050 across the full study.
What are the Risks?
While there are benefits, it is also important to consider the risks involved in participating in a research study.
Privacy Concerns: Participants may worry about how their data will be used and whether it will remain confidential. We will take steps to protect your personal information such as keeping your name and other identifying information separate from your survey answers.
Time Commitment: You may get tired, bored, or uncomfortable when you are completing surveys. You do not have to answer any questions you do not want to answer. We make every effort to ease the burden on our participants.
How is Data Analyzed?
Some common analysis techniques include:
Descriptive Statistics: This involves summarizing the data to understand its basic features.
Inferential Statistics: This allows researchers to make predictions or inferences about a larger population based on the sample data.
Qualitative Analysis: For studies that involve open-ended responses, qualitative analysis helps identify themes and patterns.
Understanding how data is analyzed can provide insight into the study's credibility and reliability.
How are Results Shared?
After analysis, researchers share their findings with the public. This can be done through various channels, including:
Academic Journals: Many researchers publish their findings in peer-reviewed journals.
Conferences: Researchers may present their work at conferences, allowing for discussion and feedback.
Public Reports: Some studies produce reports that are accessible to the general public.
Media Outlets: Findings may also be shared through news articles or press releases.
Knowing how results are shared can help participants understand the impact of their contribution.
What Should You Expect as a Participant?
If you decide to participate in a research study, there are a few things you can expect:
Informed Consent: Before participating, you will be asked to provide informed consent. This means you will be given information about the study and asked if you agree to participate.
Confidentiality: Your data will be kept confidential, and your identity will not be revealed in any reports.
Support: Researchers will provide support throughout the study, answering any questions you may have.
Understanding what to expect can help ease any concerns and make the experience more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Participating in a research study can be a rewarding experience. By understanding the key elements of the study, you can appreciate the value of your contribution.
Research is a collaborative effort, and every participant plays a vital role in advancing knowledge.
If you have any questions about our research study, feel free to reach out. We are here to help you navigate this journey.
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