Structured interviews

Definition

Structured interviews are a systematic method of data collection where interviewers ask a pre-defined set of questions in a specific order. This format ensures consistency across interviews, allowing for easier comparison and analysis of responses, which is particularly useful in research involving interviews and focus groups.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Structured interviews provide reliability in research because all participants are asked the same questions in the same way, reducing variability in responses.
2. This type of interview is particularly effective for quantitative research as it allows for easier statistical analysis of the collected data.
3. Structured interviews can limit the depth of responses since they restrict participants to predefined answers, potentially missing nuances in opinions.
4. Interviewers must be trained to administer structured interviews effectively to ensure that they adhere strictly to the format and phrasing of the questions.
5. The use of structured interviews can enhance the validity of research findings by minimizing interviewer bias and increasing the comparability of data.

Review Questions

• How do structured interviews differ from unstructured interviews in terms of data collection?
  • Structured interviews differ from unstructured interviews mainly in their approach to questioning. In structured interviews, interviewers follow a set list of predetermined questions, ensuring consistency and reliability in responses. In contrast, unstructured interviews allow for open-ended questions and encourage free-flowing conversation, which can lead to richer insights but also introduces variability that may complicate data analysis.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using structured interviews in research contexts.
  • The advantages of using structured interviews include increased reliability due to standardized questions and the ability to easily analyze data quantitatively. However, one disadvantage is that they can limit the depth of responses since participants are confined to answering specific questions. This restriction may prevent researchers from uncovering more nuanced perspectives. Additionally, if not executed properly, structured interviews might lead to disengagement from participants who feel restricted.
• Evaluate how the use of structured interviews can impact the overall research findings compared to other qualitative methods.
  • The use of structured interviews can significantly impact research findings by providing a more controlled environment for data collection. This control can enhance the validity and reliability of the results, allowing for easier generalization across larger populations. However, compared to qualitative methods like focus groups or unstructured interviews, structured interviews may overlook complex social dynamics and personal narratives that emerge through more conversational approaches. Therefore, while structured interviews yield consistent data that supports quantitative analysis, they might lack the depth and richness offered by more open-ended methodologies.

Related terms

Unstructured Interviews: A more flexible interview format that allows interviewers to ask open-ended questions and explore topics in depth based on the responses provided by participants.

Semi-structured Interviews: A hybrid format that combines elements of structured and unstructured interviews, featuring a set of predetermined questions while also allowing for additional follow-up questions based on participant responses.

Focus Groups:

A qualitative research method involving a group discussion guided by a facilitator, aimed at exploring participants' perceptions, opinions, and attitudes about a specific topic.