My name is Genesis Gavino, and I am inviting you to participate in a UT Arlington research study to gather insight into people's experience with Digital Navigators. The purpose of this research is to understand how people experience the process of getting help with technology and internet services through Digital Navigator programs, including any challenges they face, and how those experiences influence their confidence in using digital services and their perceptions of government programs. You can choose to participate in this research study if you are at least 18 years old and have experience either applying for or participating in the Digital Navigator Program (DNP). 

Reasons why you might want to participate in this study include helping us understand what worked, what didn’t, and how to make programs like the DNP easier and more accessible to everyone, but you might not want to participate if you are uncomfortable sharing this information. Your decision about whether to participate is entirely up to you. If you decide not to be in the study, there won’t be any punishment or penalty; whatever your choice, there will be no impact on any benefits or services that you would normally receive. Even if you choose to begin the study, you can also change your mind and quit at any time without any consequences. 

If you decide to participate in this research study, I will ask you to complete a survey that will take about 15-20 minutes. At the conclusion of the survey, you have the option of participating in a 60-minute follow-up interview.

There are no direct benefits to participants for taking part in this study. However, participant feedback may help inform future improvements to Digital Navigator Programs and similar digital access initiatives. Insights generated from this research may contribute to program adjustments that better reflect participant experiences, improve service delivery, and reduce barriers for future program participants. The study activities are not expected to pose any additional risks beyond those that you would normally experience in your regular everyday life.

There are no alternative options to this research project.

The research team is committed to protecting your rights and privacy as a research subject.  We may publish or present the results, but your name will not be used and you will remain anonymous. While absolute confidentiality cannot be guaranteed, the research team will make every effort to protect the confidentiality of your records as described here and to the extent permitted by law. If you have questions about the study, you can contact me Genesis Gavino, Researcher, at gdg9479@mavs.uta.edu or my Faculty Advisor, Dr. Evan Mistur at evan.mistur@mavs.uta.edu. For questions about your rights or to report complaints, contact the UTA Research Office at 817-272-3723 or regulatoryservices@uta.edu.   

You are indicating your voluntary agreement to participate by clicking on the “Start” button below.