Module 1

Module Overview

• Introduction to Internal Investigations

  • Focus on the distinctions between intake interviews and investigatory interviews.

  • Importance of understanding the common structure of interviews during investigations.

  • Introduction to foundational guidelines for note-taking during interviews.

  • Emphasis on synthesizing key learnings for practical application of knowledge.

Understanding Intake and Investigatory Interviews

• Differences between Intake and Investigatory Interviews:

  • Intake Interviews:

    • Aim to identify issues.

  • Investigatory Interviews:

    • Gather detailed information about identified issues.

• Overview of the Internal Investigation Process:

  • Internal investigations are guided by a methodology comprising six key components:

  1. Preparation

  2. Intake Interview

  3. Investigatory Interviews

  4. Analysis of Evidence

  5. Report Preparation

  6. Follow-up Actions

Significance of Note-Taking

• The Role of Notes:

  • Capturing critical information during interviews helps to clarify and substantiate findings.

  • Effective note-taking supports the integrity and accuracy of the investigation process.

  • Investigators should adopt a consistent note-taking style that highlights:

  • Objectivity

  • Clarity

Methodology for Conducting Interviews

• Common Interview Structure:

  • Both intake and investigatory interviews share similar structural elements but differ in purpose.

  • Common components include:

  • Introduction and groundwork.

  • Running through the detailed questioning phase.

  • Summarization and closure of the meeting.

• Preparation of Open and Closed Questions:

  • Interviews require both open and closed probe techniques to elicit necessary information effectively.

Foundational Guidelines for Note-Taking

• General Note-Taking Guidelines:

  • Notes must accurately reflect what is communicated during the interview without personal assumption or interpretation.

  • Techniques for effective note-taking can include:

  • Handwriting notes during the interview and typing them afterward.

  • Typing notes live and subsequently reviewing for accuracy.

  • Use of shorthand or specific personal codes is permissible but maintain clarity and consistency.

• Specific Techniques:

  • Capture verbatim quotes for precise language. Examples of poor vs. good note-taking:

  • Poor: "Touched inappropriately"

  • Good: "Touched on the rear"

• Confirmation of Observations:

  • After noting sensitive remarks, confirm observations by reflecting the emotional state or discomfort of the interviewee.

  • Example: "It seems like you were uncomfortable…" if the interviewee confirms, include this in notes.

• Inclusion of Questions:

  • When follow-up questions arise, record them concisely within brackets (e.g., [how reacted at time?]).

Developing Investigation Note-Taking Techniques

• Reflection and Consistency:

  • Review notes immediately post-interview for accuracy and clarity.

  • Emphasize systematic naming conventions using initials for individuals referenced frequently, maintaining a key for clarity.

• Summary of Note-Taking Techniques:

  • Notes must be devoid of assumptions or interpretations.

  • Use relevant emotional contexts observed during the discussion alongside the reflection of statements.

Wrap-Up

• Recap of Core Concepts:

  • Reviewed the distinct purposes of intake and investigatory interviews.

  • Discussed the structured approach to conducting interviews.

  • Highlighted essential strategies for effective note-taking throughout the interview process.