Research interviews are a fundamental data collection method characterized by their interactive nature and specific structural elements. Based on common understanding and the provided reference, interviews possess several key characteristics.
Here are the five main characteristics of interviews in research methodology, as highlighted by the reference:
Key Characteristics of Research Interviews
Interviews, particularly in research, differ significantly from casual conversations. They are designed with a specific purpose and structure, making them a powerful tool for gathering in-depth information.
1. Goal-Driven
One of the primary characteristics is that interviews are goal-driven. Unlike everyday conversations that might drift between topics, a research interview is conducted with a clear objective in mind. The interviewer aims to collect specific information relevant to the research question.
- Practical Insight: The research goal guides the entire interview process, from formulating questions to selecting participants. This focus ensures that the data collected directly contributes to answering the study's objectives.
- Example: An interview for a study on consumer preferences for a new product aims specifically to understand opinions on features, pricing, and usage scenarios, not just general product likes or dislikes.
2. Question–Answer
At its core, an interview involves a question–answer format. The interviewer asks questions, and the participant (interviewee) provides responses. This interaction is the primary mechanism for data collection.
- Variations: While this is the basic structure, the questions can range from highly structured (like a survey read aloud) to very open-ended (allowing for free-flowing discussion).
- Interaction: The quality of data often depends on the ability of the interviewer to ask clear questions and the willingness of the interviewee to provide detailed and honest answers.
3. Structured
Research interviews are typically structured to varying degrees. This structure ensures consistency and systematic data collection.
- Levels of Structure:
- Structured Interviews: Follow a rigid script with pre-defined questions asked in a specific order.
- Semi-structured Interviews: Have a topic guide but allow flexibility in questioning and probing.
- Unstructured Interviews: More conversational, guided only by a broad topic area.
- Benefit: Structure helps ensure that comparable information is gathered from different participants, especially important in quantitative or mixed-methods research.
4. Controlled
The interview process is largely controlled by the interviewer. The interviewer manages the flow of the conversation, keeps it focused on the research topic, and ensures all necessary questions are covered within the allocated time.
- Interviewer's Role: The interviewer facilitates the exchange, guides the participant back to the topic if they deviate, and manages the pacing.
- Maintaining Focus: This control is crucial for efficiency and ensuring the interview remains relevant to the research objectives.
5. Unbalanced
Research interviews are often unbalanced in terms of the roles of the participants. The interviewer is typically in a position of directing the conversation and having a clear agenda (the research goal), while the interviewee is primarily the source of information.
- Role Difference: One person (the interviewer) is facilitating and guiding based on a research objective, while the other (the interviewee) is providing information based on their experiences, opinions, or knowledge.
- Power Dynamics: While researchers strive for rapport and a comfortable environment, the inherent structure makes it different from an equal conversation between peers.
Summary Table of Characteristics
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Goal-Driven | Conducted with a specific research objective in mind. |
| Question–Answer | Core interaction involves the interviewer asking questions and interviewee responding. |
| Structured | Follows a pre-defined plan or topic guide, varying in rigidity. |
| Controlled | Interviewer manages the flow, focus, and direction of the conversation. |
| Unbalanced | Roles of interviewer and interviewee are distinct and unequal in terms of purpose. |
Understanding these characteristics is essential for designing effective interview protocols and conducting successful research interviews that yield valuable and relevant data.
