smc-5533-30-Ethical considerations

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 415

In a school-based investigation on the effects of aerobic training on cardiovascular efficiency, researchers must carefully consider ethical implications alongside validity, reliability, and credibility.

Analyse how ethical considerations in data collection might impact the validity, reliability, and credibility of the investigation's findings. (6 marks)

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Sample Answer

Informed consent requirements may limit data collection methods to non-invasive procedures, potentially reducing validity if the most valid measures (such as blood lactate sampling) are excluded in favor of less invasive but less direct measurements.
Participant comfort and safety concerns may necessitate modifications to testing protocols, such as submaximal rather than maximal testing, which creates a reliability trade-off between participant welfare and obtaining the most consistent physiological responses.
The need to accommodate varying fitness levels ethically requires individualised protocols or early termination criteria, introducing methodological variability that may compromise the standardisation required for high reliability.
Privacy and confidentiality obligations might restrict the collection of potentially relevant health information or demographic data, limiting the ability to identify confounding variables that could impact validity.
Ethical requirements for voluntary participation acknowledge participants’ right to withdraw, potentially creating self-selection bias or incomplete data sets that affect the credibility of findings.
Despite these challenges, adhering to ethical standards ultimately enhances credibility as it demonstrates scientific integrity and responsible research practices, even if methodological compromises are made.

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Sample Answer

Informed consent requirements may limit data collection methods to non-invasive procedures, potentially reducing validity if the most valid measures (such as blood lactate sampling) are excluded in favor of less invasive but less direct measurements.
Participant comfort and safety concerns may necessitate modifications to testing protocols, such as submaximal rather than maximal testing, which creates a reliability trade-off between participant welfare and obtaining the most consistent physiological responses.
The need to accommodate varying fitness levels ethically requires individualised protocols or early termination criteria, introducing methodological variability that may compromise the standardisation required for high reliability.
Privacy and confidentiality obligations might restrict the collection of potentially relevant health information or demographic data, limiting the ability to identify confounding variables that could impact validity.
Ethical requirements for voluntary participation acknowledge participants’ right to withdraw, potentially creating self-selection bias or incomplete data sets that affect the credibility of findings.
Despite these challenges, adhering to ethical standards ultimately enhances credibility as it demonstrates scientific integrity and responsible research practices, even if methodological compromises are made.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 406

Explain the ethical considerations when using video recording to analyse breathing patterns during an aerobic training investigation. (4 marks)

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Sample Answer

Specific consent for video recording must be obtained separately from general participation consent, clearly explaining how the footage will be used, stored, and eventually destroyed.
Participant privacy must be protected by recording in an appropriate setting away from uninvolved observers and ensuring the camera angle focuses only on relevant areas (chest/torso) for breathing analysis.
Access to video recordings should be strictly limited to those directly involved in the analysis process to maintain confidentiality.
Participants should be given the option to review their own footage and request deletion if they feel uncomfortable with the recording, respecting their ongoing right to control their personal data.

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Sample Answer

Specific consent for video recording must be obtained separately from general participation consent, clearly explaining how the footage will be used, stored, and eventually destroyed.
Participant privacy must be protected by recording in an appropriate setting away from uninvolved observers and ensuring the camera angle focuses only on relevant areas (chest/torso) for breathing analysis.
Access to video recordings should be strictly limited to those directly involved in the analysis process to maintain confidentiality.
Participants should be given the option to review their own footage and request deletion if they feel uncomfortable with the recording, respecting their ongoing right to control their personal data.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 405

Outline the ethical responsibilities researchers have when collecting data from participants during an aerobic training investigation. (3 marks)

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Sample Answer

Researchers must obtain voluntary informed consent from all participants (or parents/guardians for minors) before collecting physiological data, clearly explaining procedures and risks.
Participant safety must be prioritised through appropriate screening, monitoring during exercise and immediate cessation of activity if adverse responses occur.
All data must be handled confidentially and stored securely to protect participant privacy throughout and after the investigation.
Participants must be informed of their right to withdraw at any time without penalty.

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Sample Answer

Researchers must obtain voluntary informed consent from all participants (or parents/guardians for minors) before collecting physiological data, clearly explaining procedures and risks.
Participant safety must be prioritised through appropriate screening, monitoring during exercise and immediate cessation of activity if adverse responses occur.
All data must be handled confidentially and stored securely to protect participant privacy throughout and after the investigation.
Participants must be informed of their right to withdraw at any time without penalty.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 404

A student wants to investigate how different body types respond to the same aerobic training protocol by measuring heart rate, ventilation rate, and perceived exertion. Analyse the ethical considerations related to body type classification and data presentation in this investigation. (8 marks)

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Sample Answer

Classification of participants by body type must use objective, scientifically-based criteria rather than subjective judgments to avoid stigmatisation or reinforcement of negative body stereotypes.
The language used in all aspects of the investigation (recruitment, protocols, and reporting) must be neutral and respectful, avoiding terms that could cause embarrassment or perpetuate weight bias.
Informed consent must clearly explain how body type will be determined and how this information will be used in the investigation to ensure participants understand what they are agreeing to.
Data presentation should focus on physiological responses rather than emphasising body type differences in ways that might reinforce stereotypes or cause participant discomfort when results are shared.
Group data should be used wherever possible to minimise identification of individuals, particularly for sensitive measures or when small numbers of participants represent specific body types.
Privacy during physical measurements related to body type determination (height, weight, circumference) must be strictly maintained to respect participant dignity.
Researchers should anticipate and mitigate potential psychological impacts of body type classification by emphasising the diversity of healthy body compositions and focusing on functional physiological responses rather than appearance.

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Sample Answer

Classification of participants by body type must use objective, scientifically-based criteria rather than subjective judgments to avoid stigmatisation or reinforcement of negative body stereotypes.
The language used in all aspects of the investigation (recruitment, protocols, and reporting) must be neutral and respectful, avoiding terms that could cause embarrassment or perpetuate weight bias.
Informed consent must clearly explain how body type will be determined and how this information will be used in the investigation to ensure participants understand what they are agreeing to.
Data presentation should focus on physiological responses rather than emphasising body type differences in ways that might reinforce stereotypes or cause participant discomfort when results are shared.
Group data should be used wherever possible to minimise identification of individuals, particularly for sensitive measures or when small numbers of participants represent specific body types.
Privacy during physical measurements related to body type determination (height, weight, circumference) must be strictly maintained to respect participant dignity.
Researchers should anticipate and mitigate potential psychological impacts of body type classification by emphasising the diversity of healthy body compositions and focusing on functional physiological responses rather than appearance.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 403

Explain the importance of debriefing participants after they complete an investigation into physiological responses to aerobic training. (5 marks)

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Sample Answer

Debriefing fulfills the ethical obligation to educate participants by explaining the purpose, methods, and findings of the investigation in accessible language.
Sharing individual results privately with each participant respects their right to access their own physiological data and understand what it means for their health.
Debriefing provides an opportunity to identify and address any negative experiences, discomforts, or misconceptions participants may have had during the investigation.
Explaining how participants’ data contributed to the overall findings acknowledges their valuable contribution and demonstrates respect for their involvement.
Proper debriefing enhances the educational value of the investigation for participants, turning their participation into a meaningful learning experience about their own physiology.

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Sample Answer

Debriefing fulfills the ethical obligation to educate participants by explaining the purpose, methods, and findings of the investigation in accessible language.
Sharing individual results privately with each participant respects their right to access their own physiological data and understand what it means for their health.
Debriefing provides an opportunity to identify and address any negative experiences, discomforts, or misconceptions participants may have had during the investigation.
Explaining how participants’ data contributed to the overall findings acknowledges their valuable contribution and demonstrates respect for their involvement.
Proper debriefing enhances the educational value of the investigation for participants, turning their participation into a meaningful learning experience about their own physiology.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 402

A student is planning an investigation into how aerobic training affects heart rate and perceived exertion (RPE) responses, requiring heart rate monitoring and completion of rating scales during exercise sessions. Discuss the ethical considerations that should be addressed in this investigation. (6 marks)

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*PEEL – Structure solution using separate PEEL methods for each side of the argument; [P] Identify the point, [E] expand on the point with a link to question asked, [Ev] apply evidence/examples, [L] linking sentence back to question.

Sample Answer

Benefits of Non-Invasive Monitoring

P] Heart rate monitoring and perceived exertion scales provide valuable physiological data without invasive procedures.
[E] Non-invasive methods enable researchers to collect meaningful data while maintaining participant comfort and safety.
[Ev] Heart rate monitors and rating scales are accessible school equipment that students can use safely.
[L] Therefore these methods offer practical advantages for school-based aerobic training investigations.

However, this approach still presents ethical considerations

[P] Continuous heart rate monitoring during exercise may cause self-consciousness and anxiety about performance.
[E] Participant discomfort raises ethical concerns about privacy and psychological wellbeing during physical activity.
[Ev] Some participants may feel embarrassed about fitness levels or alter natural exercise behaviour when monitored.
[L] Consequently researchers must ensure participants understand monitoring purposes and maintain respectful observation practices.

Alternative Perspective on Implementation

[P] Clear informed consent and voluntary participation create ethical conditions for heart rate monitoring investigations.
[E] Transparent communication creates better understanding and reduces participant anxiety about monitoring procedures.
[Ev] However researchers must provide withdrawal options if participants experience unexpected discomfort during monitoring.
[L] Despite this ethical school research prioritises student comfort while maintaining valuable learning opportunities.

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Sample Answer

Benefits of Non-Invasive Monitoring

P] Heart rate monitoring and perceived exertion scales provide valuable physiological data without invasive procedures.
[E] Non-invasive methods enable researchers to collect meaningful data while maintaining participant comfort and safety.
[Ev] Heart rate monitors and rating scales are accessible school equipment that students can use safely.
[L] Therefore these methods offer practical advantages for school-based aerobic training investigations.

However, this approach still presents ethical considerations

[P] Continuous heart rate monitoring during exercise may cause self-consciousness and anxiety about performance.
[E] Participant discomfort raises ethical concerns about privacy and psychological wellbeing during physical activity.
[Ev] Some participants may feel embarrassed about fitness levels or alter natural exercise behaviour when monitored.
[L] Consequently researchers must ensure participants understand monitoring purposes and maintain respectful observation practices.

Alternative Perspective on Implementation

[P] Clear informed consent and voluntary participation create ethical conditions for heart rate monitoring investigations.
[E] Transparent communication creates better understanding and reduces participant anxiety about monitoring procedures.
[Ev] However researchers must provide withdrawal options if participants experience unexpected discomfort during monitoring.
[L] Despite this ethical school research prioritises student comfort while maintaining valuable learning opportunities.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 401

Discuss the ethical implications of using observation and survey methods to measure physiological responses during an investigation of aerobic training. (6 marks)

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Sample Answer

Benefits of Direct Observation Methods

[P] Direct observation of breathing patterns and physical signs provides accessible data collection during aerobic training sessions.
[E] Observing breathing rate, skin colour changes, and sweating patterns enables researchers to gather physiological response data.
[Ev] Visual assessment methods ensure no equipment barriers and allow continuous monitoring throughout exercise sessions.
[L] Therefore observation methods offer practical advantages for school-based aerobic training investigations without expensive equipment.

However, this approach presents ethical challenges

[P] Continuous observation during exercise can make participants feel self-conscious, uncomfortable, and anxious about their performance.
[E] Participant discomfort raises serious ethical concerns about privacy and dignity during physical exercise sessions.
[Ev] Some participants may alter their natural exercise behaviour or feel embarrassed about visible signs of exertion.
[L] Consequently researchers must carefully consider participant consent and ensure respectful, non-intrusive observation methods.

Alternative Perspective on Survey Methods

[P] Post-exercise surveys asking about perceived exertion and breathing difficulty are less invasive and more private.
[E] Survey methods create better ethical conditions by allowing participants to self-report their experiences privately.
[Ev] However these methods rely on subjective responses that may be less accurate than direct observation.
[L] Despite this ethical research prioritises participant comfort and privacy while maintaining useful data collection.

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Sample Answer

Benefits of Direct Observation Methods

[P] Direct observation of breathing patterns and physical signs provides accessible data collection during aerobic training sessions.
[E] Observing breathing rate, skin colour changes, and sweating patterns enables researchers to gather physiological response data.
[Ev] Visual assessment methods ensure no equipment barriers and allow continuous monitoring throughout exercise sessions.
[L] Therefore observation methods offer practical advantages for school-based aerobic training investigations without expensive equipment.

However, this approach presents ethical challenges

[P] Continuous observation during exercise can make participants feel self-conscious, uncomfortable, and anxious about their performance.
[E] Participant discomfort raises serious ethical concerns about privacy and dignity during physical exercise sessions.
[Ev] Some participants may alter their natural exercise behaviour or feel embarrassed about visible signs of exertion.
[L] Consequently researchers must carefully consider participant consent and ensure respectful, non-intrusive observation methods.

Alternative Perspective on Survey Methods

[P] Post-exercise surveys asking about perceived exertion and breathing difficulty are less invasive and more private.
[E] Survey methods create better ethical conditions by allowing participants to self-report their experiences privately.
[Ev] However these methods rely on subjective responses that may be less accurate than direct observation.
[L] Despite this ethical research prioritises participant comfort and privacy while maintaining useful data collection.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 400

Explain ethical considerations when using a control group in an investigation of how aerobic training affects recovery heart rate. (4 marks)

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Sample Answer

The control group should not be disadvantaged by participation, which means they should receive an alternative appropriate activity rather than simply sitting idle.
All participants (both experimental and control groups) must receive full information about the group they are in and what their participation involves before giving consent.
If the aerobic training shows clear benefits during the investigation, there may be an ethical obligation to offer the control group similar training opportunities after the investigation concludes.
Random assignment to groups rather than selective placement ensures fairness and scientific validity while reducing potential bias.

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Sample Answer

The control group should not be disadvantaged by participation, which means they should receive an alternative appropriate activity rather than simply sitting idle.
All participants (both experimental and control groups) must receive full information about the group they are in and what their participation involves before giving consent.
If the aerobic training shows clear benefits during the investigation, there may be an ethical obligation to offer the control group similar training opportunities after the investigation concludes.
Random assignment to groups rather than selective placement ensures fairness and scientific validity while reducing potential bias.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 399

Discuss the ethical considerations related to screening participants before their involvement in an investigation of physiological responses to moderate-intensity aerobic training. (5 marks)

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Sample Answer

Pre-participation health screening questionnaires are ethically essential to identify individuals with health conditions that might put them at risk during aerobic exercise.
Screening protocols must balance thoroughness with respect for privacy, asking only relevant health questions necessary to determine safe participation.
Exclusion of individuals based on screening results must be handled sensitively to avoid stigmatisation while prioritising participant safety.
Researchers have an ethical duty of care to ensure participants are physically capable of completing the aerobic training protocol without undue risk of adverse events.
Screening results must be kept confidential and stored securely with access limited to only those directly involved in participant safety decisions.

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Sample Answer

Pre-participation health screening questionnaires are ethically essential to identify individuals with health conditions that might put them at risk during aerobic exercise.
Screening protocols must balance thoroughness with respect for privacy, asking only relevant health questions necessary to determine safe participation.
Exclusion of individuals based on screening results must be handled sensitively to avoid stigmatisation while prioritising participant safety.
Researchers have an ethical duty of care to ensure participants are physically capable of completing the aerobic training protocol without undue risk of adverse events.
Screening results must be kept confidential and stored securely with access limited to only those directly involved in participant safety decisions.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 398

Explain why maintaining confidentiality is an important ethical consideration when collecting physiological data during aerobic training investigations. (4 marks)

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Sample Answer

Physiological data such as heart rate and fitness levels are personal health information that participants have a right to keep private. Breaches in confidentiality could lead to embarrassment or stigma if individual responses are shared without permission.
Maintaining confidentiality builds trust with participants, encouraging honest participation and more reliable data collection. This trust is essential because participants may feel vulnerable when fitness levels are measured.
Practical measures to ensure confidentiality include using participant codes instead of names, storing data securely, and presenting only aggregated results. These procedures help protect participants from potential psychological harm or discrimination based on their physiological responses.

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Sample Answer

Physiological data such as heart rate and fitness levels are personal health information that participants have a right to keep private. Breaches in confidentiality could lead to embarrassment or stigma if individual responses are shared without permission.
Maintaining confidentiality builds trust with participants, encouraging honest participation and more reliable data collection. This trust is essential because participants may feel vulnerable when fitness levels are measured.
Practical measures to ensure confidentiality include using participant codes instead of names, storing data securely, and presenting only aggregated results. These procedures help protect participants from potential psychological harm or discrimination based on their physiological responses.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 397

Outline TWO ethical considerations when investigating heart rate responses to aerobic training using student participants. (3 marks)

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Sample Answer – Any 2 of the following

Informed consent must be obtained from all participants and parents/guardians if under 18 years of age. This includes clearly explaining the investigation’s purpose, heart rate monitoring procedures, potential physical discomforts, data usage and participant rights throughout the study.
Confidentiality of personal health data must be strictly maintained by using participant codes instead of real names. All heart rate records should be secured in password-protected files with restricted access, and only aggregated results presented in findings.
Participants must have the absolute right to withdraw from the investigation at any time without penalty, negative consequences, or need for detailed explanation. Researchers must respect withdrawal decisions and immediately cease data collection from those participants.

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Sample Answer – Any 2 of the following

Informed consent must be obtained from all participants and parents/guardians if under 18 years of age. This includes clearly explaining the investigation’s purpose, heart rate monitoring procedures, potential physical discomforts, data usage and participant rights throughout the study.
Confidentiality of personal health data must be strictly maintained by using participant codes instead of real names. All heart rate records should be secured in password-protected files with restricted access, and only aggregated results presented in findings.
Participants must have the absolute right to withdraw from the investigation at any time without penalty, negative consequences, or need for detailed explanation. Researchers must respect withdrawal decisions and immediately cease data collection from those participants.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 396 MC

When collecting respiratory rate data during aerobic training investigation, which of the following represents appropriate ethical practice?

Recording participants without their knowledge
Sharing identified personal data with the whole class
Allowing participants to withdraw at any time
Requiring participants to complete the investigation regardless of discomfort

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\(C\)

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C is correct: Respecting participants’ right to withdraw at any time without penalty is a fundamental ethical principle in human research.

Other Options:

A is incorrect: Recording without knowledge violates informed consent principles.
B is incorrect: Sharing identified data breaches confidentiality.
D is incorrect: Requiring completion despite discomfort disrespects participant autonomy and wellbeing.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 395 MC

Which of the following would NOT typically be included in an informed consent form for an investigation into physiological responses to aerobic training?

Disclosure of potential risks and discomforts
Description of data collection procedures
Guarantee of superior fitness results from participation
Information about confidentiality of collected data

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\(C\)

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C is correct: Promising specific fitness benefits would be misleading and unethical, as investigations cannot guarantee results to participants.

Other Options:

A is incorrect: Risk disclosure is an essential component of ethical informed consent.
B is incorrect: Procedure descriptions are necessary for participants to make informed decisions.
D is incorrect: Confidentiality information is a critical ethical component of informed consent.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 394 MC

A university sports science student wants to conduct a study on lactate levels during aerobic training at a local high school. Which of the following represents the most significant ethical concern?

The cost of blood sampling equipment
The time required to analyse blood samples
The need for specialised laboratory equipment
The invasive nature of the procedure and participant discomfort

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\(D\)

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D is correct: Invasive nature raises ethical concerns about participant discomfort and harm.

Other Options:

A is incorrect: Cost is a practical consideration, not primarily an ethical concern.
B is incorrect: Time requirements are logistical concerns, not ethical issues.
C is incorrect: Equipment needs are methodological considerations, not ethical concerns.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 393 MC

When investigating heart rate responses to aerobic training in classmates, which of the following is the most important ethical consideration?

Getting permission from the school principal
Obtaining informed consent from participants
Using the latest heart rate monitoring technology
Publishing the results in a school newsletter

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\(B\)

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B is correct: Obtaining informed consent ensures participants understand the purpose, procedures, potential risks, and their right to withdraw from the investigation.

Other Options:

A is incorrect: While administrative approval may be required, participant consent is the primary ethical consideration.
C is incorrect: Technology choice is a methodological decision, not a primary ethical consideration.
D is incorrect: Publication decisions come after data collection and are secondary to participant consent.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 368 MC

A student wants to investigate the relationship between exercise intensity and ventilation rate during aerobic training. Which of the following ethical considerations is LEAST relevant to this investigation?

Obtaining informed consent from participants
Ensuring participant confidentiality
Receiving intellectual property rights for the research
Screening participants for pre-existing respiratory conditions

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\(C\)

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C is correct: Intellectual property rights are not a primary ethical concern in a student investigation of physiological responses, while other options are critical ethical considerations.

Other Options:

A is incorrect: Informed consent is essential for ethical research involving human participants.
B is incorrect: Maintaining participant confidentiality is a fundamental ethical requirement.
D is incorrect: Screening for pre-existing conditions is crucial for participant safety.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 366

A student has been asked to design a research question investigating the physiological responses to aerobic training in school students. Evaluate what ethical considerations should be addressed and how the student might ensure validity and reliability in their data collection. (7 marks)

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Sample Answer

Obtain informed consent from participants and parents/guardians for minors, clearly explaining procedures and potential discomforts
Screen participants for pre-existing conditions that might affect results or pose health risks during testing
Ensure privacy and confidentiality of physiological data collected from participants
Control variables such as time of day, prior food intake, and recent activity to ensure reliable results
Use standardised protocols for measuring heart rate, ventilation rate and other physiological responses
Employ calibrated equipment such as heart rate monitors and respiratory measurement devices to ensure accuracy
Include appropriate sample size and demographic representation to allow for meaningful conclusions

Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer

Obtain informed consent from participants and parents/guardians for minors, clearly explaining procedures and potential discomforts
Screen participants for pre-existing conditions that might affect results or pose health risks during testing
Ensure privacy and confidentiality of physiological data collected from participants
Control variables such as time of day, prior food intake, and recent activity to ensure reliable results
Use standardised protocols for measuring heart rate, ventilation rate and other physiological responses
Employ calibrated equipment such as heart rate monitors and respiratory measurement devices to ensure accuracy
Include appropriate sample size and demographic representation to allow for meaningful conclusions