Skype

Definition

Skype is a telecommunications application that provides video chat and voice calling services over the internet. It allows users to connect with others through live video and audio conversations, making it a valuable tool for communication and online interactions, especially in research settings where direct engagement with participants is necessary.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Skype supports both one-on-one calls and group calls, accommodating different sizes of interactions which is useful for interviews and focus groups.
2. The platform allows for screen sharing, which can be particularly helpful for presenting visual data or materials during discussions.
3. Skype has become increasingly important in research methods as it facilitates remote data collection, enabling researchers to connect with participants across distances.
4. With features like chat, file sharing, and call recording, Skype enhances collaboration among researchers and participants, allowing for richer data collection.
5. Using Skype can lead to increased participant comfort as they can join sessions from their own homes, potentially leading to more honest and open responses.

Review Questions

• How does Skype enhance the process of remote interviewing in research?
  • Skype enhances remote interviewing by allowing researchers to conduct interviews from any location while connecting with participants globally. This technology provides high-quality video and audio, which fosters more personal interactions compared to traditional methods like phone calls. Furthermore, features like screen sharing enable researchers to present materials or data during the interview, making the process more engaging and informative for both parties.
• Discuss the advantages and potential drawbacks of using Skype for data collection in communication research.
  • Using Skype for data collection offers several advantages, such as convenience, cost-effectiveness, and access to a broader participant pool across various geographical locations. However, potential drawbacks include technical issues like poor internet connectivity or software glitches that could disrupt the flow of the interview. Additionally, there may be concerns about privacy and security when conducting interviews online, requiring researchers to ensure that proper measures are taken to protect sensitive information.
• Evaluate the impact of using Skype on participant engagement and data quality in qualitative research.
  • The use of Skype in qualitative research can significantly enhance participant engagement by allowing individuals to participate from familiar environments, which may lead to increased comfort levels and openness during discussions. This increased engagement can result in richer and more nuanced data quality, as participants may feel more at ease sharing their thoughts and experiences. However, researchers must also consider factors such as the potential distractions in participants' environments or technical difficulties that could impact the interaction, thus affecting the overall quality of the data collected.

Related terms

Video Conferencing: A technology that allows users in different locations to hold face-to-face meetings via video and audio connections.

Webinar: A seminar conducted over the internet, often used for educational purposes, where participants can interact in real-time through various multimedia formats.

Remote Interviewing: A method of conducting interviews with participants from different locations using technology like Skype, facilitating data collection without geographical constraints.