Consent may be obtained in ways other than in writing.

• A. False
• B. Not required
• C. True
• D. Not sure

Answer: (C)

Consent can be given through methods other than a written form. In TCPS 2, the critical requirement is that participants are informed, understand what participation involves, and voluntarily agree to participate with a way to withdraw. Documentation of consent can be written, oral, or another appropriate record, depending on the study’s risks and context. For example, researchers may obtain oral consent for interviews (sometimes with a witness or audio record) or use implied or opt-in consent in low-risk settings. The ethics board reviews whether the chosen method adequately protects participants and records consent when needed. So, consent may indeed be obtained in ways beyond writing.