General
7. I want to translate the test to another language, what should I do?
If you are interested in translating the scale into a new language, you are very welcome to do so! However, that may not be as easy you may think. An official translation of a psychometric scale needs to be done in the following way:
- Translation from original language (= some of the other currently available languages) to a new language by a native speaker of that language
- Reverse translation back from the new language to the original language by (preferably) a native speaker of the original language or professional translator. This person should not have seen the test before.
- Comparison between the two translations and discussion among translators to resolve discrepancies and questions in between the original and reverse translated version. The research team members from the Futures Consciousness database can also be consulted to ensure the translations respect the original meanings.
- Validating the new translation with a test audience (ca. 300 respondents) and statistical analysis of the results
New, validated translations can be added to this database. The process of technically adding a new translation to the database does not take long. It should be noted, however, that even if the test can be translated into a new language, some of the functions of the database will always be only available in English (e.g. the entry page to the test, the result page, etc.).
Together with a translation of the Futures Consiousness test into a new language, we also would like to include a translation of the info sheet describing the five dimensions that test users receive together with their results at the end of the test.
6. Which languages is the test available in?
Currently the test is available in the following languages:
- For adults:
- English
- Finnish
- French
- German
- For teenagers
- Dutch
- English
- Italian
- Turkish
It should be noted, however, that even if the test is translated to another language, some of the functions of the database are only available in English (e.g. the entry page to the test, the result page, etc.). In some cases, the test coordinator may have to guide users in the process of taking the test.
9. I still have questions, how can I contact a human?
Please contact fcprofile@utu.fi. Please allow 1-7 working days for a response.
8. How can I practice futures consciousness on my own?
Activities for practicing each of the Five Dimensions of Futures Consciousness are provided along with an individual’s test results.
5. Why should I register as a user?
As a registered user, you will gain access to the researcher workspace, where you will be able to create and manage test groups, customize survey questions, and carry out surveys to your selected group of respondents.
- Your respondents will receive their personal profile results in a graphic form like this. In addition, they receive a small info sheet on the meaning of the five dimensions and what kind of exercises they can do to improve their future consciousness.
- The customization of survey allows for up to 200 additional questions to be added in a variety of formats typical in survey research. The custom questions can be saved and edited easily as a set.
- As a test coordinator, you will get access to a summary report of the results from your test group that looks like this. The report includes the average results and distributions of the groups responses on the five dimensions of the Futures Consciousness. The results from your test group can also be obtained for research purposes in a CSV format from the site administrators.
4. Can I use this test as a corporate client? What are my usage rights?
Corporate entities are eligible to apply for use of the tool as an internal research tool, or as a part of their practice. For details see terms and conditions and the pricing section.
3. What is futures studies and what discipline or approach is the futures consciousness profile rooted in?
Futures Studies includes research in the areas of strategic foresight, anticipation and long range planning, to name a few. It includes a transdisciplinary approach, an appreciation of complexity and the rigorous analysis of beliefs about the future as the subject of research. In addition, the futures consciousness test is based on research in personality and social psychology. You can read more about the scientific background in here.
2. Why do individuals not have access to the test and results?
The Futures Consciousness Profile Database is a research tool for practitioners, students and researchers affiliated with accredited institutions. The participants who’s results are added to the database are from selected or randomized samples. To avoid disrupting ongoing research and the introduction of self selection bias, the test is not currently open to general visitors of this site.
1. Why is Futures Consciousness important and how can it be useful for me?
Having an understanding of the development of your own Futures Consciousness is an important step in bridging the gap in our understanding of the relationship between oneself and the wider world, and the complex interlinkage between the past, present and future. It is a capacity that can be developed with sustained practice and reflection, which can lead to more thoughtful decision making, an improved understanding of how futures can be influenced, and an appreciation of the wider influence our dispositions have on our behaviour as well as the consequences our behaviours can have. To find out more about the Five Dimensions of Futures Consciousness, read here and to read more about the research behind the concept see here.