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.

Each course includes pre-course assignments, including readings and pre-recorded videos, as well as daily live lectures totalling at least three hours. The instructor will conduct live Q&A sessions and offer designated office hours for one-to-one consultations.

Please check your course format before registering.

Online courses

Live classes will be held daily for three hours on a video meeting platform, allowing you to interact with both the instructor and other participants in real-time. To avoid online fatigue, the course employs a pedagogy that includes small-group work, short and focused tasks, as well as troubleshooting exercises that utilise a variety of online applications to facilitate collaboration and engagement with the course content.

In-person courses

In-person courses will consist of daily three-hour classroom sessions, featuring a range of interactive in-class activities including short lectures, peer feedback, group exercises, and presentations.

Disclaimer

This course description may be subject to subsequent adaptations (e.g. taking into account new developments in the field, participant demands, group size, etc.). Registered participants will be informed at the time of change.

By registering for this course, you confirm that you possess the knowledge required to follow it. The instructor will not teach these prerequisite items. If in doubt, please contact us before registering.