Unless your test instrument is commercially available (i.e., available for purchase), you will likely need to seek permission to use a test instrument in your dissertation. An exception may be instruments retrieved from the APA PsycTests database. The majority of tests within this database can be used without seeking additional permission. However, the instrument must explicitly state May use for Research/Teaching in the permissions field.
Also, note that obtaining permission to use an instrument is not the same as obtaining permission to reproduce the instrument in its entirety in your dissertation appendix. You must ask for separate permissions to do that.
First, you will need to identify who owns the copyright. The copyright holder is usually the author/creator of the work. Often, the author’s email address appears within the published journal article from which the instrument originated. If you need help tracking down the original article, please contact the Library.
If an email address is not readily available or seems to be outdated, you will need to search for the author’s contact information online. Try using quotation marks around the name or adding an associated institution to narrow your results. Again, if you need assistance with the step, the Library can recommend search techniques. However, the Library will not contact authors on your behalf.
Once you have located the contact information, prepare to introduce yourself and explain why are seeking permission. State clearly who you are, your institutional affiliation (e.g., Northcentral University), and the general nature of your thesis/dissertation research. Also discuss whether you are modifying the instrument, or if you are reproducing the instrument in your appendix. Typically, an email exchange is best, but some authors may prefer mail correspondence or a phone call. There are many sample permissions letters available online, including some examples linked below.
In some cases, authors transfer copyright to another entity, such as a journal publisher or an organization. Publishers often have website forms or letter templates that you can use to submit your request. See an example from Wiley here.
Remember, you will need to document permissions in your dissertation appendix. Make sure to save a copy of the correspondence and the agreement. Documentation allows you to demonstrate to your Chair and others that you have the legal right to use the owner's work.
In some cases, authors or publishers may either not respond to requests or refuse to grant permission to use their work. Therefore, it is important to select a few potential tests or measurements. The Library can certainly assist with searching for alternate test instruments.
For additional information about copyright and permission guidelines, see sections 12.14 - 12.18 in the APA Manual, 7th edition.
