Field Methods: Interview Techniques PDF

Interview Field Methods Lesson Objective Describe the nature of interviews and identify strengths and limitations of interview as data collection method What is a research interview? A research interview is a formal conversation between two individuals to gather information During th...

Interview Field Methods Lesson Objective Describe the nature of interviews and identify strengths and limitations of interview as data collection method What is a research interview? A research interview is a formal conversation between two individuals to gather information During the interview, the researcher, or interviewer, asks the interviewee a series of questions about the research topic Research interviews seek an in-depth understanding of the topic What is a research interview? Interviews delve deeper into: Feelings: People may have feelings about something you can't easily quantify. Reasons: An interviewee can explain their answer rather than checking a yes/no box. Ambiguity: Sometimes, people have mixed feelings about a product, feature, or option. Experience: In an interview, people reveal their unique backgrounds and life experience. Essential Factors for interviews Formulating interview questions Selecting an interview format Finding appropriate subjects Developing Interview Skills What are the main types of interview? 1. Focus groups 2. Structured interview 3. Unstructured interview 4. Semi-structured interview 5. Personal in-person interview 6. Phone interviews 7. Online interview Focus Groups A focus group usually consists of interviewing 8–12 people together Strenghts: (1) Can garner a lot of feedback from multiple participants in one session; (2) Simpler than arranging one-on- one interviews. Limitations: (1) more extroverted and aggressive participants may dominate the discussion, while shy people may be reluctant to speak up; (2) A group setting also requires skilled interviewers who keep the discussion on point. While the setting is usually informal, the session needs to stay on-topic. Structured Interview A structured interview is usually a one-on-one discussion between interviewer and interviewee. Strengths: (1) Focused and efficient, with less room for deviation from the topic and biases (2) Each interviewee answers identical questions, so the results are clear and easier to interpret than in a less structured interview. Limitations: (1) The formal atmosphere of a structured interview may put interviewees on guard, making them less likely to provide authentic answers; (2)Some interviewees are inclined to provide the answers they think the interviewer wants, which is the social desirability bias. NOTE: While the standardized approach is useful in some ways, there are advantages to observing people's reactions when they are engaging more spontaneously Unstructured Interview An unstructured or non-directive interview is where questions are open-ended and informal. In contrast to a structured interview, the interviewer does not have a predetermined list of questions. This creates a more conversational tone and relaxed atmosphere. Unstructured interviews essentially have the reverse pros and cons of structured interviews. Strengths: Interviewees are more relaxed and likely to provide honest and spontaneous answers. Limitations: The informality of unstructured interviews makes it more challenging to analyze results systematically. Since the questions are likely to differ from one interview to the next, there will be a wider range of possible responses. This means it takes more time to analyze the results. Semi-Structured Interview A semi-structured interview lies between a structured and unstructured format The interviewer does not have a strict list of questions to ask in a predetermined order. Instead, a general framework gives the interview some structure Strength: A semi-structured interview can combine some of the benefits of structured and unstructured interviews. The format is controlled enough to provide some structure but informal enough to keep the conversation casual and interviewees at ease Limitation: Similar to those of unstructured interviews to a lesser degree. It can be difficult to compare interviewee responses with precision. Personal Interview A personal interview is an in-person, one-on-one conversation between the interviewer and interviewee. Personal interviews can also be structured, unstructured, or semi-structured. Strength: There are no distracting influences from other group members. Attention is focused to one person only, allowing for in- depth communication. Limitation: Time and expense of arranging in-person sessions with each interviewee may pose a challenge Phone Interview Strengths: Convenient for researchers and interviewees Can save time and money Larger reach for a short period time People who may be reluctant to take the time to attend a live session are more likely to agree to a phone interview at their convenience. Limitations: Being unable to observe body language and facial expressions Many people are distracted while on the phone Respondents may be multitasking while on the phone Online Interview Online interviews provide some of the benefits of phone interviews with some additional possibilities. Online interviews fall into two general categories: Asynchronous and synchronous. Asynchronous interviews can be conducted via email. This includes one-on- one interviews, where interviewees respond to individual emails. There are also group interviews with group emails. Synchronous interviews are real-time, using chat programs or video conferencing software. Video interviews provide many of the advantages of live interviews Limitation: Gadgets and statble internet connection are needed for smooth facilitation. What type of interview is the best? You need to consider your needs and budget when determining the best interview method for your research Generally, focus groups and other in-person interviews becomes most effective and authentic when conducted in the interviewees environment as this allows for the most depth and quality of communication Time and financial constraints are considerations The best method should be one that will yield most effective results How to conduct a research interview 1. Define your objectives 2. Prepare your questions Prepare your questions Questions can focus on the following: behaviours: what the respondent does or has done opinions or values: what the respondent thinks about the research topic feelings: the respondent's feelings about the research topic background or demographics: standard background questions about the respondent's job status, age, income and education knowledge: facts about the research topic sensory: what the respondent saw, heard, tasted or smelled Prepare your questions Questions can focus on the following: behaviours: what the respondent does or has done opinions or values: what the respondent thinks about the research topic feelings: the respondent's feelings about the research topic background or demographics: standard background questions about the respondent's job status, age, income and education knowledge: facts about the research topic sensory: what the respondent saw, heard, tasted or smelled Characteristics of good interview questions (https://aultman.libguides.com/c.php?g=974169&p=7042440) Open-ended and elicit a long response from the interviewee (can't be answered yes/no or with one word) Focus on the experience of the interviewee Don't lead the interviewee toward a particular response Address a single issue/point (i.e. don't ask multi-part questions) Writing interview questions (https://aultman.libguides.com/c.php?g=974169&p=7042440) 1.Write down the larger research questions of the study. Outline the broad areas of knowledge that are relevant to answering these questions. 2.Develop questions within each of these major areas, shaping them to fit particular kinds of respondents. The goal here is to tap into their experiences and expertise. Writing interview questions (https://aultman.libguides.com/c.php?g=974169&p=7042440) 3.Adjust the language of the interview according to the respondent (child, professional, etc.). 4.Take care to word questions so that respondents are motivated to answer as completely and honestly as possible. Writing interview questions (https://aultman.libguides.com/c.php?g=974169&p=7042440) 5.Ask “how” questions rather than “why” questions to get stories of process rather than acceptable “accounts” of behavior. “How did you come to join this group...?” 6.Develop probes that will elicit more detailed and elaborate responses to key questions. The more detail, the better! Writing interview questions (https://aultman.libguides.com/c.php?g=974169&p=7042440) 7.Begin the interview with a “warm-up” question— something that the respondent can answer easily and at some length (though not too long). It doesn’t have to pertain directly to what you are trying to find out, but this will put you more at ease with one another 8.Think about the logical flow of the interview. What topics should come first? What follows more or less “naturally”? This may take some adjustment after several interviews. Writing interview questions (https://aultman.libguides.com/c.php?g=974169&p=7042440) 9.Difficult or potentially embarrassing questions should be asked toward the end of the interview, when rapport has been established. 10.The last question should provide some closure for the interview, and leave the respondent feeling empowered, listened to, or otherwise glad that they talked to you. Example: This study aims to know the relationship between the level of stress and academic performance of the college students of STI-WNU during SY 2023-2024. Specifically, this will answer the following questions: 1. What is the profile of the repondents? 2. What is the level of stress of therepondents? 3. What is the academic performance of the repondents? 4. Is there a significant relationship between the level of stress and the academic performance of the repondents? 5. How do students experience stress?  Research Matrix Question Data Method of Collection Sources 1. What is the profile of Age Questinnaireof Personal Section 1 of Questionnaire the repondents? Gender Information (Open-Ended Items) Course and Year Parents’ Income 2. What is the level of Stress of Students Perceived Stress Scale by Section 2 of Questionnaire stress of therepondents? Cohen (Scale) Or Researcher-made Scale 3. What is the academic Grades of Students Secondary Data requested Secondary Data performance of the from the Department (secure from Registrar or repondents? Department) 4. Is there as significant Data Set for StressLevel Provided in No. 2 & 3 Statistical Computation relationship between... Data Set for Academic Perf. 5. How do students Qualitative Descrpitions Interview Structured Interview experience stress? Responses Interview Schedule (Interview Guide) a plan or a list containing a set of structured questions that have been prepared, to serve as a guide for interviewers, researchers and investigators in in collecting information or data about a specific topic or issue Generally, interview schedule should have the following three major parts: 1. Opening / Engagement 2. Body / Interview Proper 3. Closing / Termination Activity: Preparing Interview Questions Draft an “Interview Schedule or Guide” focused on the question, “How do students experience stress?” Prepare your plan and questions for Engagement, Interview Proper, Termination Interview can be conducted in 60 minutes only How to conduct a research interview 1. Define your objectives 2. Prepare your questions 3. Choose the type of format Common Interview Formats 1. Focus groups 2. Structured interview 3. Unstructured interview 4. Semi-structured interview 5. Personal in-person interview 6. Phone interviews 7. Online interview How to conduct a research interview 4. Choose your respondents Some Considerations: age gender annual income where they live family and job status education psychographic characteristics, such as personality, lifestyle, values and attitudes Number of people to interview How to conduct a research interview 5. Prepare for the interview Choose a setting for the interview Explain the purpose of the interview Address terms of confidentiality Provide details of the interview How to conduct a research interview 6. Conduct the interview Ask one question at a time Give the respondents time to answer and allow them to speak without interruption During the interview, encourage answers by nodding your head or asking for clarification on specific responses. You can record the interview for future reference, but ensure the respondent is aware of the recording. How to conduct a research interview 6. Conduct the interview You may take notes or ask the interviewee to fill in a written questionnaire as part of the interview process Be wary of your body language and facial expression throughout the interview. It's important to appear open and interested in the respondent's answers. Interview Mindset (https://aultman.libguides.com/c.php?g=974169&p=7042440) While the research interview is a one-on-one interaction, it's not a normal conversation. As the interviewer, it's expected that interviewers: Are knowledgeable on the topic of the interview (this may require some background research) Are able to structure and guide the interview to keep it relevant but flexible Are able to remember and interpret the information gained in the interview Are sensitive to the interviewee's position and their rights 10 Key Active Listening Skills (https://waywithwords.net/resource/active-listening-interview-strategies/) #1 Building Rapport and Trust #2 Clarifying and Summarising #3 Avoiding Assumptions and Biases #4 Nonverbal Communication #5 Empathetic Listening 10 Key Active Listening Skills (https://waywithwords.net/resource/active-listening-interview-strategies/) #6 Asking Open-Ended Questions #7 Resisting the Urge to Interrupt #8 Reflective Listening #9 Maintaining Focus #10 Continuous Self-Improvement Building Rapport and Trust Ensure that your interviewee is not only more likely to open up, but they also feel valued and respected Use their name when addressing them Remember to thank them for their time at the end to leave a lasting positive impression. Clarifying and Summarising This not only demonstrates your engagement but also ensures that you fully understand the interviewee’s perspective When you clarify and summarise, you can also use this as an opportunity to seek further details or ask follow-up questions. Example: After your interviewee shares a complex idea, you could say, “So, if I understand correctly, you’re saying that…” Avoiding Assumptions and Biases Set aside your preconceived notions and biases. It’s essential to approach each interview with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Assumptions can lead to misinterpretations and missed opportunities for deeper insights It’s essential to reflect on your own perspectives and consider how they may influence your understanding of the interviewee’s responses. Self-awareness is key to combating biases effectively. Nonverbal Communication Nonverbal cues are the unsung heroes of active listening. Subtle gestures like maintaining eye contact, nodding in agreement, and adjusting your body language to convey engagement play a pivotal role in effective communication. These cues signal to the interviewee that you are fully engaged and receptive to their words. Nonverbal cues should align with the tone of the conversation. Empathetic Listening Empathy is a key element of active listening. Understanding the interviewee’s emotions and experiences allows you to connect on a deeper level and show genuine care for their perspective. Empathetic listening fosters an environment where interviewees feel heard, respected, and validated. It important to use phrases that show you understand the interviewee’s feelings. Phrases like “I can see that this meant a lot to you” or “I can imagine that must have been really challenging” “I can imagine that must have been really tough for you.” Asking Open-Ended Questions Crafting open-ended questions is a skill that can transform interviews. Open-ended questions encourage interviewees to share more about their thoughts and experiences, prompting meaningful and in-depth responses. They create a space for the interviewee to express themselves freely and provide a broader range of perspectives and insights. Resisting the Urge to Interrupt Interrupting your interviewee can disrupt their flow and hinder the development of a comprehensive answer. Active listening demands that you patiently wait for the speaker to finish before responding. This not only allows the interviewee to express themselves fully but also demonstrates respect for their perspective. If you have a burning question or thought, jot it down as a note during the interview. This way, you can revisit it once the interviewee has concluded their point, maintaining the flow of the conversation. Reflective Listening Reflective listening goes beyond words; it involves mirroring the interviewee’s emotions and experiences. This technique validates their feelings and demonstrates that you truly understand their perspective. By reflecting their emotions and experiences, you create a deeper connection and reassure the interviewee that their thoughts and feelings are acknowledged. Maintaining Focus Maintaining focus during an interview is a challenge. Active listening demands your undivided attention and discipline in resisting distractions. Distractions not only undermine the quality of your interview but also convey disinterest to the interviewee. Create a conducive interview environment. Ensure that you are in a quiet and distraction-free Turn off your phone or any other potential distractions during the interview to ensure you’re fully engaged. What to do when you listen Take note of the non-verbal communication you convey Listen to understand the underlying feelings Do not interrupt Do not judge Do not argue mentally Empathize Use of non-verbal cues Clarify—ask questions to get more information if necessary Paraphrase in your own words for clarificatiion  DO’S Don'ts Making eye contact Fidgeting Maintaining an interested Sighing facial expressions Foot tapping Nodding Texting Facing the other person Yawn Maintaining an attentive posture Keeping a close proximity Continuous Self-Improvement Active listening is a skill that can always be improved. Regularly reflect on your interviews and identify areas where you can enhance your listening techniques. Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or even the interviewees themselves to gain valuable insights into your strengths and areas for improvement. Interview Simulation Interview Simulation - Performance Task.docx