Research Tools & Instruments

Most research instruments (surveys, questionnaires, tests, interview guides) are copyrighted or licensed.
If you did not create the instrument yourself, you must obtain permission or follow the stated usage terms.

🔔 Note: Citing the source is not the same as having permission. You must do both.

✅  Permission Process

1. Check for Usage Terms

• Look for usage instructions or license terms where you found the instrument (e.g., APA PsycTests, publisher website, article).

• If it says "May use for research/teaching," no further permission may be needed.

• If unclear, proceed to Step 2.

2. Identify the Copyright Holder

• Dissertations and other unpublished tools: Contact the author. 

• Databases: Look for a “Permissions” section.

• Company or publisher websites: Use the contact info provided.

• Books Check the intro, "contributors" section, or author bios on the cover or front pages.

• Articles: Look for author affiliation or email on the first or last page.

• Online: Google the author name, check university and organizational affiliation  (professional, social media)

3. Specify the Rights You Need

Be clear about how you’ll use the instrument. Will you:

• Reproduce it in your dissertation, capstone, final project?

• Modify or adapt it?

• Use it in data collection?

4. Request Permission

• Email the copyright holder or publisher.

• Be specific about how you plan to use the tool.

• Negotiate payment or terms if necessary.

5. Save Documentation

• Keep copies of all emails and written permissions.

• Save usage terms or licenses for your records.