Lecture Seven

Week Seven: Power in Knowledge Production

Lecture Overview by Eliza Fellows, Dr. Gumbings

Key Concepts:

• Research Dynamics: Who can conduct research and access knowledge; language barriers; differences between regular and educated individuals.

• Sociological Constructs: If a concept lacks a name, it falls outside sociological recognition. Considerations of knowledge banning.

• Types of Questions:

  • Closed Questions: Yes/no format.

  • Open-ended Questions: Encourage participant expression.

  • Probing Questions: Follow-ups that deepen discussion.

Review of Last Week's Lecture:

• Selection and focus of researchers, wording of hypotheses, subject choice, observational methods, and data analysis about how results are disseminated and who accesses them.

Today's Lecture Insights:

• Self-awareness in Interviewing: Understanding how personal identity influences interviews.

• Interview Technique: Use semi-structured formats allowing for flexibility; avoid closed questions; layer queries regarding life changes and social impacts.

• Importance of active listening, critical questioning, and non-assumptive communication.

Interview Best Practices:

• Introduce yourself and explain the research.

• Ensure effective eye contact and engage with open-ended questions to improve rapport and comprehension.

• Maintain cultural sensitivity and be mindful of tone and body language.

Summary

Focus on the relationship between researcher's identity and knowledge production, employing effective interviewing techniques to foster deeper understanding and engagement.