Psych Paper 3

Clear research objective and the interview schedule will include broad topics or themes for discussion; there may or may not be a list of starter questions but the defining features of this style of interview are flexibility and freedom; the direction of the interview is determined by the interviewee and the interviewer bases any questions asked on their previous responses.

Unstructured Interview Characteristic 1

Unstructured interviewers need more training and experience to collect credible data; it can be hard to keep the interview on track and achieve the research objective when there is no ‘script’ as such; eliciting relevant information without asking leading questions and with minimal guidance in the interview schedule requires practice and skill.

Unstructured Interview Characteristic 2

More flexible than a structured interview; while there is a pre-determined set of questions in the interview schedule, the interviewer may deviate from this, asking follow-on questions if the interviewee presents an unanticipated and relevant view; the interviewer may also rephrase questions and alter the order as appropriate.

Semi-structured Interview - Characteristic 1

Schedule may include both open and closed questions: open questions prompt longer, richer answers from respondent allowing them to elaborate in their own words without being guided in any particular direction by the interviewer while closed questions result in brief, precise answers of just a few words.

Semi-structured Interview - Characteristic 2

Comprises 8-12 people who are interviewed together about a topic of common interest; this size group works well allowing all members to have their say; people who share similar experiences tend to bond together, developing a sense of belonging and trust which helps them to talk freely about even sensitive issues.

Focus Group - Characteristic 1

The researcher becomes the group facilitator and their role is to monitor the discussion, keep the group on the topic if they veer off into an irrelevant topic; they must ensure that all issues raised are responded to and explored as fully as possible within the time available.

Focus Group - Characteristic 2