HANDS-ON ACTIVITY

Draft an AI consent form

Create ethical, plain-language consent documents for AI-assisted M&E data collection.

Why AI-specific consent matters: Standard consent forms don't explain how AI processes participant data. Ethical M&E requires transparency about AI use, data protection, opt-out rights, and human oversight. This activity guides you to draft a consent form adapted to your context.

Describe your M&E context

Project / program name

Target population

Data collection method

Literacy level of participants

How will AI be used? (select all that apply)

Transcribe audio/video to text Analyze responses for themes / sentiment Translate responses to another language Summarize long responses

Customize & preview your AI consent form

Tip: Fill the fields above — the consent form updates automatically. Adapt the language to your participants (low-literacy, youth-friendly, etc.) using the toggles below.

Use plain / simple language (remove legal jargon) Include opt-out options (full consent / human-only / no participation) Add guidance for verbal / oral consent (low literacy)

Preview: AI-Informed Consent Form

Ethical review checklist

Before using your consent form in the field, ensure each item is addressed:

Explains what AI does in simple, specific terms

States that humans (not AI) make final evaluation decisions

Describes data protection & anonymization

Provides clear opt-out / withdrawal rights

Uses language appropriate for participants' literacy level

Includes contact information for questions

Best practices for AI consent in M&E

Use plain language: Avoid "algorithm", "natural language processing". Say "computer helps find patterns in what you share".
Be upfront about limitations: AI can make mistakes; humans will review.
Offer tiered opt-out: Some participants may accept AI transcription but not AI analysis.
For low literacy: Read consent aloud, use visual icons, and document verbal agreement.
Store consent separately from data: Maintain anonymity.
Re-consent if AI use changes: If you add new AI tools later, inform participants.

View sample AI consent paragraph (youth-friendly)

"We will use a computer program to help us organize what you tell us — like grouping similar ideas together. The computer never sees your name, only your words. Our team will still read everything and make all final decisions. You can choose: (a) let the computer help us, (b) only our team reads your answers (no computer), or (c) you prefer not to participate. No matter what you choose, your decision won't affect any services you receive."

You've created an AI-informed consent form tailored to your evaluation. Use the copy button to integrate into your ethics protocols.

Activity 3: Draft an AI Consent Form | Ethical M&E Practice