Chapter 9 - Qualitative Interviewing

Qualitative Interview

Technique to understand the world from the subject’s point of view to uncover the world prior to scientific explanations

-Relies on listening, understanding, and asking questions

-Qualitative interviews are informal and flexible:

1. Semi-structured

2. Unstructured

Semi-Structured Interview

Flexible interview format, main questions prepared ahead of time, questions can be modified/clarified based on participant

Unstructured Interview

Highly flexible interview format, based on questions that develop through interaction with participant (responsive)

Conducting an Interview Steps

1. Determine appropriate structure (what is the interview meant to accomplish)

-Example: One or two participants with an unusual case may require unstructured interview vs group with responses that will be contrasted may required semi-structured interview

2. Select a sample

-Carefully select for particular kinds of interviewees, relies on purposive/snowball sampling

3. Consider ethical implications

-Anticipating potential risks to participants, interview guide may be necessary, maintaining privacy, etc

4. Establish rapport

-Mannerisms, dress, tone of voice, letting participant talk, tolerating uncomfortable silence, active listening

Types of Interview Questions

Ice Breaker - Opening question that is used specifically in order to establish rapport

Transition Statement - Moves the conversation into the essential questions

Essential Questions - focus of the study

Probes - Motivate elaboration on a certain topic

Throw-Away Question - used to give the interviewee a break, usually unrelated

Extra Questions - assesses reliability, equivalent to essential questions

Follow-up Question - specific to earlier comments, used for clarification

Closing Question - Brings closure to the interview

Final Question - Determines if interviewee has any questions/comments

Coding and Analyzing Interview Data

Transcription - data entry process in which the obtained verbal information is transferred verbatim into the text

-Involves extraction of concepts/themes

-Pay careful attention to context = condition that give rise to problems/circumstances to which individuals respond by means of action/reaction/emotion

Focus Group Interviewing

Small discussion group led by an interviewer, obtains views/feelings on a particular topic through group interaction

-Similar to qualitative interview: Interviewer moderates/facilitates, wide range of topics using open-ended questions

-Unlike an Interview: Multiple participants at once, results based on interactive collaboration

Focus Group (Typical) Components

Clear objectives - meant to learn more about a topic

6-8 participants in a group

Skilled moderator establishes and maintains positive group dynamics