3
THE RESEARCH PROCESS ASSIGNMENT 3: INTERVIEW METHOD
Running head: THE RESEARCH PROCESS ASSIGNMENT 3: INTERVIEW METHOD
1
The interview method is one of the most common research gathering methods. It involves a one-to-one conversation between two people, the interviewer and the interviewee. Interviews can be an essential tool used in survey research because the method allows the interviewer to ask more complex questions and better understand how the subject truly feels about the topic at hand.
The interview method is a popular way for researchers to gather information from their subjects, and it can take many forms. The most common type of interview is the structured interview, in which the researcher develops a list of questions for the subject to answer. Another type of interview is called the semi-structured interview. The researcher has general topics they would like to cover in this category but asks follow-up questions based on the subject’s responses. Finally, there is the unstructured or narrative interview, in which the researcher does not develop questions ahead of time but instead allows the conversation to flow naturally (Ngumbi & Edward 40). All these categories of interviews are significant in the interview process.
Interviews can be a crucial tool incorporated in survey research because they facilitate the uncovering of information by providing room for clarification. An interview with a survey allows the researcher to delve deeper into the subject’s answers, finding out information that would not be available with a written survey, such as using a questionnaire. During an interview, the researcher can ask follow-up questions, describe the purpose of certain questions, and provide clarification for any confusing points (Alshenqeeti 41). For example, in an interview about healthcare policy, respondents can be asked to clarify why they support a particular policy by highlighting its advantages. Essentially, this clarification provides greater lucidity on what they mean when responding to a particular question. Thus, when conducted properly, surveys can unearth information that is not necessarily available from other types of research.
Another reason why interviews can be an effective tool used in survey research is because they are also highly convenient. Each interview can be recorded and reviewed as many times as necessary (Alshenqeeti 42). Besides, depending on the medium used, in person, over the phone, through email—the interview can take place anywhere and at any time, offering great convenience.
The interview method also allows the researcher to document nonverbal cues and better understand how the subject feels about the topic. Nonverbal cues include things like facial expressions and body language. These can be particularly useful when determining how a subject feels about a specific topic (Alshenqeeti 42). For example, if a researcher asks someone what they think about something, they may say they like it even though they lie. However, suppose the researcher can record a video of their interview. In that case, they can also see that the person is frowning or showing other signs of displeasure as they answer, flagging a potential lie.
Finally, interviews are relatively inexpensive compared to other methods of research. There may be travel costs associated with getting to and from each appointment if conducted in person. However, if conducted over the phone or through technologies like zoom or skype, researchers can save money on transportation and keep their travel schedule clear for other purposes.
In an interview, the interviewer needs to understand the topic, establish clear objectives, decide whom to interview, prepare the interviewee, and outline your question types and structure. Firstly, the interviewer must start by establishing the topic of research. Once they have determined that, the next step is to consider what they hope to learn from their interviewees. Ideally, this will help them decide which people to interview and questions to ask. Secondly, the researchers should set the goals of the interview. The third step is to decide who is going to be interviewed. The best person for an interview depends on who can provide the answers most relevant to the subject matter. The fourth step is to prepare them for the interview by giving them basic information about where the interview will take place and what topics will be covered. Lastly, the interviewer needs to outline the questions they plan to ask the interviewer and follow-up questions.
Never begin an interview cold: Research the subject before beginning the interview and know what questions to ask.
Remember your purpose: You are interviewing someone because you want to learn something from them, not just so they can tell you the same things that they’ve told other people time and time again.
Present a natural front: Do not be too formal or stern when conducting an interview or too casual or informal. Being natural should be the goal.
Demonstrate aware hearing throughout the interview: this will make your interviewee feel more comfortable and relaxed while also showing that you are genuinely interested in what they have to say.
Think about appearance: Dressing appropriately for both yourself and your interviewee will make your subject feel more comfortable with you as an interviewer; it is vital that they feel at ease when answering questions so that there is less chance of them being hesitant when responding verbally or physically.
Think about appearance: Dress so that the interviewee will not be intimidated.
Practice more: This means preparing for the interview by rehearsing relevant points and questions.
Be cordial and appreciative: The interviewee put other things aside to attend the interview Thus, it is vital to be appreciative.
Interviews can be a paramount tool utilized in survey research. They allow the researcher to more information from the respondents interactively and spontaneously. The interviewer can provide additional clarification to questions, probe deeper into answers, and use a variety of response formats.
Works Cited
Alshenqeeti, Hamza. Interviewing as a data collection method: A critical review. English Linguistics Research, 3.1 (2014): 39-45. https://doi.org/10.5430/elr.v3n1p39. Accessed on 23th March 2022
Ngumbi, E., and Edward, O. Qualitative interviewing. Scholars Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, 3(5), 2015, e1053-1059. Retrieved from https://saspjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/SJAHSS-35B1053-1059.pdf. Accessed on 23th March 2022
Salkind, Neil J. Exploring Research. University of Kansas Pearson, 2016.