Interviews for Qualitative Data Generation

Key topics covered

Day 1

Understanding interview research 

We begin with an introduction to contemporary debates in qualitative interviews, including approaches, epistemologies, and traditions underpinning interview research. Different types and forms of interviews as a source of knowledge generation are introduced before we proceed to practical discussions of interview design and data generation. 

Day 2

Field preparation strategies 

We examine different qualitative sampling strategies and explore persuasive techniques for gaining access to the field. We engage in the development of fieldwork preparation strategies through an ethical lens, including designing an interview guide and ethics forms (e.g. information sheet, consent form). A special focus is on developing and framing interview questions for achieving breadth and depth, while thinking through interview stages and strategies of inquiry. 

Day 3

Interview as a social interaction 

In interview research, a relationship between the interview and interviewee is integral to the method. We discuss face-to-face and mediated interviews from a social interaction perspective and consider different factors of influence, including trust, rapport, technology, socio-demographics, power, culture, gender and language. We discuss interviewing skills, qualities and responsibilities required to manage these in different physical and online interview situations and to enhance the data generation process.

Day 4

Data management process

We examine different approaches to data management and analysis in interview research. We address the issues related to ethical data recording, storage and handling, transcription, coding strategies, plurality of interpretations as well as risks of misunderstanding and under-theorisation of data. The strengths and limitations of traditional ‘by hand’ vs. computer-assisted qualitative data analysis are discussed.

Day 5

Critical reflection

The course concludes with critical reflection on interview research. We adopt ethical theory to summarise and (re)consider the ethical risks and dilemmas emerging from interview research and transactional theory to examine the role of reflexivity, critical self-assessment, researcher’s influence on the research process and ‘truthfulness’ of data. Current methodological debates, that focus on interviews and their quality assurance, strengths, risks and limitations, are reviewed.

How the course will work online

The course will provide pre-recorded short videos and assigned readings, outlining key theoretical principles, concepts, walkthroughs and tips in interview research. You will be required to watch/read these in advance of daily live presentations, seminar discussions and live work sessions on Zoom (totalling approximately 120 mins/day). 

Live sessions will focus on participants’ questions, reflections and experience. There will be dedicated time to work on your interview skills and techniques through daily exercises and assignments. These live sessions will be complemented by a Moodle discussion forum. 

You will be able to book one-to-one consultations with the Instructor, by arrangement, over the duration of the course.

You should know and understand the ontological, epistemological and theoretical underpinnings of qualitative research. 

You are recommended, but not required, to bring your own research project to the course.