Consent Form

Introduction to the Research

You are invited to participate in a research study being conducted by researchers at Penn State University. The purpose of this study is to understand how consumers evaluate and choose vehicles. You are being invited because you are part of the general consumer population and your preferences will contribute to generalizable knowledge in decision making.

Key Details About Participation

This study is considered minimal risk, meaning the risks are no greater than those encountered in daily life.

What you will do: You will be asked to describe your vehicle preferences in writing and then complete several sets of vehicle choice tasks (e.g., choose between two car options).
Time Commitment: The survey is expected to take no more than 20 minutes.
Risks: The primary risk is potential fatigue or boredom from the task. There are no anticipated physical, social, or legal risks.
Benefits: There are no direct personal benefits to you.
Confidentiality: Your participation is completely anonymous. We will not collect your name, email address, or any other identifying information that could link your responses back to you. All data will be kept confidential and stored on secure university servers.
Voluntary Participation: Taking part in this study is entirely voluntary. You may choose not to answer any question, stop the survey at any time, or refuse to participate.

Research and Subject Rights Contacts
If you have any questions about the research, please contact the Principal Investigator: Jason Bell, Email: jjb6945@psu.edu
If you have questions about your rights as a research subject, or if you have concerns or complaints about the research, you may contact the Penn State Office for Research Protections (ORP). Phone: (814) 865-1775, Email: orp@psu.edu

Implied Consent: By continuing to the next page of the survey, you confirm that you have read and understand this information and voluntarily consent to participate in this research study.

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Study Overview

In this study, we are interested in understanding the decision rules you use when considering and purchasing a vehicle. Imagine that you are planning to purchase a new car in the near future.

The study has two parts:

Part 1 — Describe your preferences: You will write a short message describing exactly how you would want someone to choose a car on your behalf.
Part 2 — Choice tasks: You will then see 20 pairs of vehicles and select the one you would prefer.

Vehicle features you will see in this study:

Feature	Available Options
Brand	Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Lexus, Mazda, Mini, Nissan, Scion, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen
Body Type	Compact Sedan, Compact SUV, Crossover, Hatchback, Midsize SUV, Sports Car, Standard Sedan
Fuel Economy	15, 20, 25, 30, or 35 MPG
Engine Type	Internal Combustion or Hybrid
Price	$25,000 to $60,000
Trim Level	Base, Upgrade, or Premium
Workmanship Rating	Q3, Q4, or Q5 (Q5 = highest quality)
Crash Safety Rating	C3, C4, or C5 (C5 = safest)
Power Seats	Yes or No
Glass Package	None, Sunroof, Defogger, or Both

Part 1: Teaching Your Agent

Imagine that you have decided to use a trusted friend as your agent to help you find the right car. The agent will be given a large list of automobiles and must select a vehicle that you would be happy to purchase.

Please compose an e-mail below telling your friend exactly how to make decisions for you. To ensure the agent follows your rules correctly:

Start your e-mail with "Dear friend," (already provided).
Be Unambiguous: Clearly state which features are "must-haves" (conjunctive rules), which features are "deal-breakers" (elimination rules), and how you make trade-offs (compensatory rules).
Be Comprehensive: Use as many instructions as necessary so the agent fully understands your preferences.

Dear friend,

0 characters

Which vehicle would you prefer to purchase?

Task 1 of 20

	Option A	Option B

Thank you!

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