By “a strategy or architectural design by which the researcher maps out an approach to problem-finding or problem-solving,” Buckley and Chiang define research methodology. “[1] According to Crotty, research methodology is an all-encompassing approach “that silhouettes our selection and use of specific methods relating them to the anticipated outcomes,[2] but the choice of research methodology is based upon the type and features of the research problem.” [3] According to Johnson et al. “A class of research where the researcher combines or mixes quantitative and qualitative research techniques, methods, approaches, theories, and/or language into a single study,” according to the definition of mixed method research [4] Qualitative findings must be supported by quantitative findings in order to foster a diversity of viewpoints. Because of this, rather than being incompatible, these research methodologies are thought to complement one another. [6].
When a researcher or investigator investigates a new field of study or seeks to identify and theorize significant issues, the qualitative research methodology is thought to be appropriate. The most popular types of qualitative methods are interviewing and observation, which are developed to have an in-depth and extensive understanding of the issues through their textual interpretation. [7].
This is the most typical method for gathering data in qualitative research. According to Oakley, a qualitative interview is a type of framework where practices and standards can be achieved, pushed, and reinforced in addition to being recorded. The majority of qualitative research interviews are semi-structured, lightly structured, or in-depth because no research interview is without structure[9]. [9] Unstructured interviews are typically advised when conducting lengthy fieldwork because they allow participants to express themselves freely and at their own pace with little interference from the interviewer. [10].
the use of unstructured interviews with local key informants, which was pioneered by ethnography collecting information through observation, keeping field notes, and interacting with study participants Unstructured interviews are more like conversations than interviews, and they are always perceived as being “controlled conversations” that are biased in the interviewer’s favor. [11] Non-directive interviews are a type of unstructured interview that aim to collect detailed information without typically having a pre-planned set of questions. [11] A focused interview is another type of unstructured interview in which the interviewer is familiar with the respondent and, when the respondent veers off topic, usually brings the conversation back on track. [11] An informal, conversational interview that is based on ad hoc questions that are immediately generated during the interview is another type of unstructured interview. [11].
In contrast, semi-structured interviews are in-depth interviews in which respondents must respond to predetermined open-ended questions; as a result, many healthcare professionals use semi-structured interviews in their research. There is a lot of use of semi-structured, in-depth interviews as an interviewing format, sometimes with an individual and sometimes even with a group. [6] These interviews are conducted once only, either with an individual or a group, and typically last from 30 minutes to over an hour. Semi-structured interviews are based on semi-structured interview guides, which are schematic presentations of questions or topics that the interviewer must delve into. [12] Interview guides help to make the best use of interview time by helping to keep the interview on the intended course of action while also exploring many respondents more thoroughly and methodically. [12] The interview guide’s questions are broken down into a core question and numerous questions that are related to it. These questions are then made even better through pilot testing. [7] Recording interviews is thought to be a good idea in order to capture interview data more effectively, though it is occasionally controversial between the researcher and the respondent. Handwritten notes are generally unreliable during interviews, and the researcher may overlook some important details. The researcher can concentrate more easily on the interview’s content and verbal cues when it is being recorded, which makes it possible for the transcriptionist to create a “verbatim transcript” of the interview.
Similar to this, focus groups involve interviewing invited groups of people in a discussion setting while the session moderator is present. Typically, these discussions last 90 minutes. [7] Group discussions have some inherent value in that participants can express their opinions in an open manner, similar to how every research technique has benefits and drawbacks. Contrarily, in these kinds of discussion contexts, specific issues can be emphasized, which may result in the generation of fewer initiatives and research topic suggestions.
Research can be seen and understood as laboriously methodical attempts to examine, investigate, and reorganize the realities, theories, and applications Research methods reflect the approach to tackling the research problem. Research methods can either combine qualitative and quantitative data or use either one separately, depending on the situation. A potential researcher will refine their preconceived notions and extrapolate their thought process by using qualitative methodology, analyzing and estimating the problems from a comprehensive viewpoint. This could be done through one-on-one interviews or through discussions focused on specific issues. Observational methods are, sometimes, supplemental means for corroborating research findings.
7 interview methods in research
Seven important interview techniques that you can use in your research are listed below:
1. Focus group
Focus group interviews, which involve a number of people being interviewed simultaneously, are a common technique for research interviews. Focus group facilitators typically encourage participant interaction while watching the group to gain understanding of actual attitudes and perspectives. Focus group settings tend to feel more authentic than other interview settings, so participants often respond more at ease and naturally.
2. Structured interview
Structured interviews are another option. Typically, closed-ended questions—questions that respondents can only respond “yes” or “no” to—are part of structured interviews. The interviewer typically asks each interviewee the exact same questions in the same order. Because structured interviews adhere to a predetermined format, researchers can frequently finish them quickly.
3. Unstructured interview
The opposite of a structured interview is an unstructured interview, also known as an informal interview. In unstructured interviews, each interviewee is not subjected to the same set of questions. Unstructured interviews, on the other hand, rely on open-ended inquiries, which call for a more in-depth response than a simple “yes” or “no.” The interviewer can also ask follow-up questions in unstructured interviews to give interviewees the chance to elaborate on their responses. Consequently, an unstructured interview resembles a real conversation more.
4. Semi-structured interview
Another option is to conduct interviews using a semi-structured approach, which combines elements of structured and unstructured interviews. Even though they might stick to a general strategy and set of questions, interviewers frequently have the flexibility to make adjustments. Because of this, interviewers may be more creative in obtaining the information they need for their research.
5. Personal interview
A personal interview is a one-on-one conversation between the interviewer and the interviewee that takes place in person. A personal interview is the best option if you want to speak with someone one-on-one and tailor your questions to them. You can also ask follow-up questions to gain additional insights. Personal interviews are the best if you need to collect a significant amount of accurate data because they typically have higher response rates than other interview options.
6. Phone interview
You can also conduct interviews over the phone. Phone interviews can be an easy way to gather responses. This interview technique is also reasonably priced, making it perfect if you want to quickly collect data without using a lot of resources.
7. Online interview
Online interviews are another research interview option. Online interviews can involve surveys or video chat applications. This approach doesn’t require interviewers and subjects to be present in the same place at the same time. As a result, you may be able to quickly gather information from numerous subjects.
What are interview methods in research?
There are various techniques you can use to conduct successful research interviews, including interview methods. Many researchers interview subjects as part of their research process. You can learn more about people’s behaviors, attitudes, and opinions by conducting interviews. Interviews are typically most helpful for qualitative research, which emphasizes ideas and experiences rather than numbers. You can select from a variety of interview techniques if you want to include interviews in your research and use a strategy that is appropriate for your particular research.
How to conduct interviews in research
You can conduct interviews as a part of your research process by following these crucial steps:
1. Choose your interview method
Choosing a method is the first step in conducting a research interview. It’s crucial to select the appropriate methodology for your particular research as well. You can take factors like your interviewees’ age and habits into account when selecting a method. This will enable you to collect the data you require for your research while assisting you in determining which approach is most beneficial for your interviewees.
2. Develop interview questions and process
Another important step is developing your interview questions and process. Depending on the type of research you conduct, the questions you ask may change, but many researchers favor open-ended inquiries. If you’d like, you can make an interview schedule to use as a guide. The schedule can include a list of the questions you want to ask and any other crucial interview elements.
3. Facilitate the interview
Once youve planned your interview, you can facilitate it. Depending on the type of interview you’re conducting, you might want to ask someone else to help you conduct it. For instance, if you’re using the focus group method, you might think about hiring a skilled focus group moderator to ensure the interview yields the best results. Throughout the interview, be sure to take notes so you can refer to them when you analyze your findings.
4. Analyze your results
You can examine the response information after conducting your research interview. In order to determine how your data relates to your research, go over your notes and any interview transcripts or recordings. This step also allows you to choose whether you want to conduct additional interviews to gather more data.
Tips for conducting interviews in research
Here are some more pointers you can use to conduct effective interviews:
Record your interviews
One recommendation for conducting efficient research interviews is to record them. You can ensure you gather accurate data and don’t miss any crucial details by recording your interviews. For in-person interviews, you can use a camera or a voice recording program. You might be able to use screen recording software or a video chat application’s built-in recording feature for online interviews. You can also create a written transcript of your recording so that you can refer to it later.
Be mindful of researcher bias
Being aware of researcher bias is a crucial additional piece of advice for conducting research interviews. This happens when a researcher skews their data—either intentionally or unintentionally—to match their desired result. Avoid researcher bias as much as you can because it can undermine the validity of your research. By collaborating with others and replicating your research’s findings in different contexts, you can reduce the likelihood of researcher bias.
Choose the right interview setting
Additionally, it’s crucial to pick the appropriate location for your interview. Try to find a calm place with limited distractions. This can make interviewees feel at ease and make them more likely to participate candidly and authentically, which can help you glean insightful information from the interview.
Use your research question as a guide
You should also use your research question as a guide when conducting interviews. A research question, which serves as the focus of the research and the goal of the study, is typically the first step in the research process. You can make sure you ask questions and gather data to support your research by keeping your research question in mind.
Research Methods: Interviews (Sociology Theory & Methods)
FAQ
What are the methods of interview in research?
Structured, semi-structured, and unstructured research interviews are the three main categories.
What are the 4 types of interviews in research?
- Types of interviews in research.
- Structured interview.
- Semi-structured interview.
- Unstructured interview.
- Focus group.
What are the three methods of interview?
Let us start with the different types of interviews. There are three types of interviews: unstructured, semistructured, and structured.
How many types of interview methods are there?
Screening interviews and selection interviews are the two main types of interviews used by businesses. Every company’s hiring process is different.
