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Posted: 4/01/20

TAMIU Researcher Seeks Volunteers for Global COVID-19 Psychology Study

 

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With some 80 percent of the U.S. population at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an important opportunity to participate in a global research study, says a Texas A&M International University (TAMIU)  researcher.

“While people are at home practicing self-isolation and social distancing, I would encourage them to be volunteers to take part in a global study on the impact of COVID-19 on psychology,” said Dr. Angelique Blackburn, TAMIU assistant professor of Psychology.

“Participants will be asked to take a number of surveys,” explained Dr. Blackburn, “One aspect of this study is linked to another survey created by a coalition of more than 100 researchers across world, which will launch in over 27 languages.   It’s not my typical research, but this is so important that many researchers have agreed to prioritize work related to COVID-19 over our own research programs. We basically dropped our normal routine and took on roles based on what we could contribute.”

These projects are being conducted by volunteer scientists, she explained.  Participation is voluntary and there are no costs for doing so.

“With most universities being closed and faculty working from home, researchers with certain skills have diverted their present research to join the teams .  My research usually involves understanding how bilinguals can acquire and manage multiple languages and a potential neuroprotective effect of bilingualism during age-related cognitive decline.  But because I have experience in creating surveys and analyzing the data, I was recruited to volunteer my research skills for these important studies,” she said.

Blackburn said the study is both urgent and focused on future applications.

“There is an urgency and we are stopping our own work to figure things out and setting up studies on human psychology to prepare for the next pandemic. These psychology teams have been working day and night to get these projects going. We want to make sure the results represent everyone, so it’s important for people to participate.  It’s kind of like a vote – participating ensures your thoughts count,” Blackburn said.

For more information on the study and volunteer participation, visit: https://forms.gle/EEr9jrPQKWygoWP47

As part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the TAMIU campus is closed to the general public. Services at the University continue, practicing all CDC Guidelines on gathering and social distancing and with staff working remotely.  Office hours are subject to change and it is recommended that phone or email contact be made first to determine the office schedule of operation. Entry to campus is only open to students, faculty, staff  and those having legitimate reasons to be on campus. 

The University’s dedicated COVID-19 website is updated daily and includes information on office schedules and services, an expansive FAQ, quick links, student resources, official information links and much more.