What is an air pollution monitor and how do I use it?
The Atmotube PRO is a wearable, portable monitor that measures air quality and pollutants. The device is small (3.3 x 1.9 x 0.8 in) and only weighs a little over 100 grams.
We will send you a fully charged air pollution monitor in the mail- all you have to do is clip the device onto your child’s backpack, clothing, etc. for 7 days. We will then provide you with a pre-paid envelope. Once the 7 days is complete, we will ask that you send back the monitor using this envelope.
Is there a cost to participate?
No! It is completely free to participate in this study.
Do I have to travel for this study?
No, all study activities can be done online from your home.
Can more than one of my children participate in this study?
Multiple siblings can participate in the study, as long as they’re all in Grades 1 – 3.
What type of personal information will be collected?
We will ask you to provide some demographic information about your child, family and community if you decide to participate. For example, age, ethnicity, and the amount of vehicle traffic in your neighbourhood. Your personal information will be stored separately from your responses to the psychological assessments and your air pollution monitor data, which will be stored under a code name.
If you decide to participate in this study, we will send you the study’s informed consent form, which will include information about how your data will be stored and how your privacy will be protected.
Are there any benefits to participating?
Kids that participate in these sorts of activities report having fun. You will receive a summary of information about your child’s performance on the tests, including measures of thinking, academic abilities, behaviour, and emotions. This is not a clinical or diagnostic report, but it can be shared with support services and schools. Families will also be reimbursed for their time ($50). Participating in this study will also help us fill a gap in the current research on child development and environmental health.