Social Research Methods Chapter 10
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Questions and Answers

How does the researcher prepare for data collection in unstructured personal interviews?

  • By collecting data solely from written surveys
  • By being open to unforeseen circumstances and adapting based on responses (correct)
  • By following a detailed script of questions
  • By avoiding any interaction with the participants

What role does the researcher play during interviews or focus group discussions?

  • A demanding role where they must manage the conversation effectively (correct)
  • A passive observer gathering data without engaging
  • An authoritarian figure controlling the conversation strictly
  • A facilitator who only provides predefined questions

Which method has traditionally been used for conducting unstructured interviews?

  • Face-to-face communication in physical settings (correct)
  • Telephonic conversations without visual cues
  • Online surveys with multiple-choice questions
  • Written questionnaires mailed to respondents

What is a significant advantage of modern technologies in data collection?

<p>They enable the organization of online interviews and focus groups (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of data collection allows for new questions to emerge?

<p>The researcher's interpretation of previous answers (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common issue that may arise due to poor communication during unstructured interviews?

<p>Misinterpretation of answers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach for starting an interview?

<p>Introduce easy, simple, and interesting topics. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can researchers reduce communication problems during interviews?

<p>By assessing the communication form prior to the interview (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When are sensitive or controversial questions best raised during an interview?

<p>Towards the end of the interview. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors could influence a respondent's answers during unstructured interviews?

<p>The researcher’s characteristics (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might be a consequence of conducting an overly long interview without breaks?

<p>Useful information may become limited. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential risk of the researcher asking leading questions during an interview?

<p>It may skew the respondent's answers (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

To create a conducive atmosphere for interviews, researchers should primarily focus on which aspect?

<p>Developing a safe and reassuring atmosphere (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What method is primarily used for data recording in interviews?

<p>Audio recording as the preferred method. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is understanding the respondent’s characteristics important during unstructured interviews?

<p>It may prevent misunderstanding and influence on responses (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it often challenging to take notes during an interview?

<p>It distracts from listening and managing the conversation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one consequence of a researcher influencing respondent answers?

<p>Compromised data integrity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a suggested practice for ensuring a good ending to an interview?

<p>End with easy and uncomplicated questions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What duration is generally appropriate for interviews according to the context given?

<p>Between 60 and 75 minutes often, but varies. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which method is essential for a researcher to conduct effective unstructured interviews?

<p>Creating a relaxed communication atmosphere (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might help respondents become more comfortable with recording devices during an interview?

<p>Ensuring they agree to use them beforehand. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of constructing an interview guide in unstructured interviewing?

<p>To provide a starting point and guideline for the discussion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a key characteristic of unstructured interviewing?

<p>Flexibility to adapt the interview based on the respondent's characteristics (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a typical problem during unstructured data collection?

<p>Poor communication between researcher and respondent can occur (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one important consideration when formulating questions during the interview?

<p>Questions should reflect the sequence of topics discussed (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to provide information to respondents before the interview?

<p>To establish trust and clarity for the interview process (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial aspect to consider when using audio recordings during an unstructured interview?

<p>The recordings can help in making accurate transcripts (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is NOT a part of the implementation of data collection?

<p>Ignoring the need for audio recordings (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should a researcher consider regarding the form of communication during unstructured interviews?

<p>Non-verbal cues can enhance understanding (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary finding regarding planners' attention in the focus group discussions?

<p>Planners typically ignored cumulative effects in discussions. (B), Planners actively sought to enhance attention to cumulative effects. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What method was used to collect data during the focus group discussions?

<p>Audio-recording and researcher notes. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of asynchronous online focus groups based on the study of parents refusing vaccination?

<p>Participants can respond at their convenience over a period of time. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might the size of a focus group be considered important?

<p>Smaller groups allow for deeper individual responses. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does unstructured interviewing differ from structured interviews?

<p>Unstructured interviews allow for flexible questioning. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a discussion guide in focus groups?

<p>To list topics for discussion and facilitate group interaction (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect was emphasized in the article regarding parents and childhood vaccination?

<p>Multiple reasons contributed to vaccine refusal among parents. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the moderator adapt the discussion during a focus group?

<p>By following the development of the conversation and modifying questions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one result of the discussions in the focus groups concerning planners?

<p>They suggested ways to better consider cumulative effects. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable benefit of using focus groups over personal interviews?

<p>Focus groups facilitate group dynamics, offering varied insights (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What feature distinguishes synchronous online focus groups from asynchronous ones?

<p>Synchronous groups involve simultaneous participation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what ways can moderators enhance participant contributions during a focus group?

<p>By encouraging and following up on new perspectives (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What method is commonly used for recording focus group discussions?

<p>Audio or video recordings that are transcribed later (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the interaction in focus groups according to the content?

<p>Group discussion can stimulate the memory and motivation of participants (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many questions did the discussion guide used in the study of transport infrastructure in Sweden consist of?

<p>Five questions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one challenge faced by moderators during focus group discussions?

<p>To remain sensitive to the development of group discussion dynamics (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Data collection in interviews

Collecting data in interviews changes based on participant responses and communication. New questions emerge, data collection and analysis happen together, and the researcher adapts the process based on insights and experience.

Unstructured interviews

Interviews without a fixed set of questions. The researcher adapts based on participant responses. Data collection and analysis happen together.

Focus group conversations

Discussions with a group of people. Data is collected and analyzed simultaneously.

Online interviews/focus groups

Interviews or discussions conducted online, using new technologies.

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Researcher's role in interviews

Researchers play a complex role in interviews, adapting the process based on collected data and experience.

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Unstructured Interview Guide

A broad outline of interview topics, providing a flexible framework for data collection.

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Interview Guide Purpose

To ensure relevant information is gathered from respondents, without being rigid.

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Information Requirements

Identifying the necessary data to address the study questions.

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Interview Preparation Tasks

Essential steps before data collection, to ensure a solid interview approach.

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Interview Guide Scope

Must be detailed enough to get necessary info, but flexible enough for each person.

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Communication Transparency

Clear communication between researcher and respondent, and agreeing on the interview.

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Interview Sequence

Ordering topics strategically to smoothly guide the conversation based on interview progression.

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Data Collection Issues

Potential problems during unstructured interviews, such as communication breakdowns or researcher influence.

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Interview Procedure

The steps taken during an interview, starting with simple questions, progressing to more challenging ones, and ending on a positive note.

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Initial Interview Questions

Simple, engaging questions to establish rapport and conversation flow, like 'Describe a typical day' or 'Family activities last weekend'.

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Sensitive Questions

Questions that might be emotionally challenging for the interviewee, and should typically be saved until later.

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Interview Duration

The length of the interview, which can vary from study to study and respondent to respondent.

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Small Breaks

Short pauses during long interviews to help maintain focus and energy for both interviewer and interviewee.

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Audio Recording

Common method for data capture in interviews, involving recording the conversation using audio equipment.

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Video Recording

Data capture technique allowing for visual capture in some cases, with prior consent.

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Researcher's Notes

In some interviews, data is recorded by taking notes during the interview.

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Poor Communication During Interviews

Problems with communication between the researcher and the respondent in an unstructured interview can lead to incomplete or inaccurate data.

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Researcher Influence on Responses

The researcher's presence, questions, or demeanor can unintentionally influence the respondent's answers, affecting data quality.

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Researcher's Gender Impact

The researcher's gender can affect respondent responses depending on the topic and demographics of the participants.

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How To Reduce Communication Problems?

Researchers can minimize communication issues by finding appropriate communication methods, creating a comfortable interview environment, and understanding the respondent's perspective.

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Unstructured Interview Challenges

Unstructured interviews present unique obstacles for data collection due to the flexible nature of the interview process.

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Respondent Characteristics Impact

Various aspects of the respondent's personality and background can influence their responses, making it essential to consider these factors during data analysis.

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What is an Unstructured Interview?

A conversation-based data collection method where the researcher adapts questions based on the respondent's answers.

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Data Collection & Analysis: A Two-Way Street

During unstructured interviews, data collection and analysis often happen concurrently, as new insights emerge from the conversation.

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Focus Group Guide

A list of topics or questions to be covered during a focus group discussion.

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Moderator's Role

To introduce topics, ask follow-up questions, and guide the discussion in a focus group.

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Follow-up Questions

Questions asked by the moderator to clarify responses and explore topics further in a focus group.

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Focus Group Dynamics

The interactions and discussions among participants in a focus group, influencing the information gathered.

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Benefits of Focus Groups

Focus groups provide a variety of perspectives, encourage creative thinking, and stimulate participants' memory.

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Moderator's Sensitivity

The moderator's ability to be aware of the group's discussion flow and guide it to generate new information.

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Data Analysis in Focus Groups

Analyzing data collected from focus groups, including audio recordings, transcripts, and moderator notes.

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Focus Group Data Collection

Collecting data from focus groups through recorded audio or video, which is then transcribed for analysis.

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Focus Group

A structured discussion with a small group of people to gather insights and opinions on a specific topic.

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Online Focus Group

A focus group conducted online, allowing participants to contribute asynchronously, over a period of time.

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Synchronous Online Focus Group

An online focus group where all participants engage in a discussion simultaneously, in real-time.

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Asynchronous Online Focus Group

An online focus group where participants contribute independently over a period of time, without needing to participate simultaneously.

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Interview Guide

A structured outline of questions and topics for an unstructured interview, ensuring all relevant information is gathered.

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Focus Groups vs. Unstructured Interviews

Focus Groups involve a group discussion, while unstructured interviews focus on individual perspectives. Focus Groups are more efficient for gathering diverse opinions, while Unstructured Interviews allow for deeper exploration of individual experiences.

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Why Group Size Matters

The size of a focus group influences its dynamic: too small, and opinions aren't diverse; too large, and some might not contribute. Ideal size allows everyone to participate actively.

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Cumulative Effects

The combined impacts of various projects or activities on an environment or population, considering the long-term effects.

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Study Notes

Social Research Methods

  • Book title: Social Research Methods
  • Authors: Sigmund Grønmo
  • Focus: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches

Chapter 10: Unstructured Interviews and Focus Groups

  • Learning Objectives: Covers personal interviews, focus groups, data collection, and typical problems
  • Chapter Outline: Includes online interviews/focus groups, chapter highlights, research examples, student exercises, recommended literature
  • Personal Interviews and Focus Groups: Qualitative data collection, unstructured and informal design
  • Preparing the Data Collection:
    • Constructing an interview guide:
      • Defining information requirements
      • Specifying topics
      • Specifying form of communication
      • Determining degree of transparency
  • Implementing the Data Collection:
    • Agreeing on the interview: providing information to respondents, ensuring ethical standards, and confirming the degree of transparency
    • Interviewing: ensuring good communication, selecting appropriate time and venue
    • Data recording: audio/video recording, notes, transcribing
  • Data Analysis in Parallel with Data Collection: Parallel analysis of data during collection; adjusting interview guides and methods.
  • Typical Problems During Data Collection:
    • Communication problems: poor communication, misunderstanding, perceived influence of researcher
    • Respondent problems: recall errors, self-presentation issues
  • Focus Groups: Conversations and Group Dynamics:
    • Focus groups similar to interviews but with multiple participants
    • Moderator steers discussion, guiding conversation, but allowing group dynamics to emerge.
    • Data collection and analysis similar to individual interviews.
  • Online Interviews and Focus Groups:
    • Synchronous/asynchronous formats, interviews or focus groups can be conducted online using various platforms
  • Chapter Highlights: Emphasizes importance of clear communication, respondent information, ethical considerations, and establishing a comfortable rapport with respondents.
  • Research Examples: Includes citation of studies utilizing interviews/focus groups, including Gould, Dinah, and Marina Fontenla (2006), Nasrabadi, et al (2016), and Folkeson, Lennart, et al (2013)
  • Student Exercises and Questions: Provides exercises for developing interview guides and exploring focus groups.
  • Recommended Literature: Includes suggested books and articles by Barbour (2018), Brinkmann and Kvale (2018), James and Busher (2014), and King et al (2018) for further reading.

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Explore the dynamics of unstructured interviews and focus groups in qualitative research through this chapter's comprehensive overview. You'll learn about data collection techniques, preparing interview guides, and the ethical considerations involved. This quiz will enhance your understanding and help you apply these research methods effectively.

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