I received ethical approval to offer refreshments, and a draw with a prize of cinema vouchers. The refreshments are going down well with the students - sweets and chocolate! In terms of getting in to schools in the first place, getting in touch with Psychology teachers has been helpful, as some see taking part in some real research as an opportunity to underpin the students' learning of research methods. There are a few other 'things I wish I'd known when I started' which I'll be happy to share with anyone who's doing something similar.

Thanks Zutterfly, good tip on checking with the schools as to what you're allowed to offer!

Will post an update on how it went...

Thanks Tudor_Queen and Thesisfun, that's really helpful!

Hi everyone,

I am planning to conduct some research in schools with students in year 10 (14/15 years old) and year 12 (16/17 years old) and I'm getting tangled up in the thorny issue of incentives. I plan to offer refreshments in the sessions, and have been considering offering a prize draw for cash or a voucher as well. I can't get the funding to be able to offer something to every participant, and whatever I do offer must not be so large as to be an inducement.

Does anyone have an advice on what incentives they have used with students in school, that have been ok from an ethics point of view, and effective in terms of recruitment?

Also, if you use a 'prize draw', are there any legal or age issues to consider?

All advice gratefully received! Thanks.