Interviewing

Definition

Interviewing is a method used to gather information from respondents through direct verbal communication, often involving structured or semi-structured formats. This technique allows researchers to collect qualitative data, explore personal experiences, and gain insights into opinions or behaviors that might not be captured through other survey methods. The process can take place via various channels, including in-person, over the phone, or online, each with its own advantages and challenges.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Interviews can be categorized into three main types: structured, semi-structured, and unstructured, each varying in the level of flexibility in question delivery.
2. Telephone interviews are cost-effective and allow researchers to reach a wider geographical area while maintaining a personal touch.
3. Online interviews offer convenience for respondents and can lead to higher response rates, especially among tech-savvy populations.
4. Building rapport with interviewees is essential for eliciting honest and detailed responses, which can significantly impact the quality of the data collected.
5. The use of recording devices during interviews can enhance data accuracy but requires careful consideration of ethical issues regarding consent and privacy.

Review Questions

• How does the choice of interview format (in-person, telephone, online) affect the quality of data collected?
  • The choice of interview format can greatly influence the quality of data collected due to factors like respondent comfort, accessibility, and the ability to build rapport. In-person interviews often allow for non-verbal cues to be observed, which can enhance understanding. Telephone interviews may reduce geographic barriers but might limit engagement levels. Online interviews can increase convenience and reach but may lack the personal touch that fosters deeper conversations.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using telephone interviews compared to face-to-face interviews.
  • Telephone interviews offer several advantages, including cost-effectiveness, broader reach across geographic areas, and convenience for both researchers and respondents. However, they may also have disadvantages such as the inability to observe non-verbal cues and potential distractions in respondents' environments. In contrast, face-to-face interviews allow for a richer interaction but can be more time-consuming and costly due to travel requirements. Balancing these factors is crucial when choosing an interviewing method.
• Evaluate the impact of response bias on the validity of data collected through interviewing techniques in surveys.
  • Response bias can significantly undermine the validity of data collected through interviewing techniques by skewing results due to social desirability or misunderstanding of questions. For instance, if respondents feel pressured to provide socially acceptable answers, the insights gained may not accurately reflect their true beliefs or behaviors. To mitigate response bias, researchers must design their interview questions carefully and establish a trusting environment that encourages honesty, thereby enhancing the reliability of their findings.

Related terms

Qualitative Research: A research method focused on understanding human behavior and the reasons that govern such behavior, typically involving open-ended questions and detailed responses.

Survey Instrument: A tool used for collecting data in surveys, which may include questionnaires and interview guides designed to elicit specific information.

Response Bias:

A systematic tendency of respondents to answer questions inaccurately or falsely due to various factors, such as social desirability or misunderstanding of the question.