22. Data Collection- Interviews

Question 1

What are the two types of interviews distinguished in the text?

Answer 1

• Structured interviews
• Unstructured interviews

Structured interviews have a fixed set of questions, while unstructured interviews do not.

Question 2

Outline the commonly used strategies for conducting interviews.

Answer 2

• Schedule standardized interview
• Non-schedule standardized interview
• Non-standardized interview

These strategies vary in terms of question wording and order.

Question 3

Compare and contrast quantitative and qualitative strategies for conducting interviews.

Answer 3

• Quantitative: focuses on numerical data and structured questions
• Qualitative: focuses on understanding concepts and open-ended questions

The choice depends on the type of information desired.

Question 4

What is a structured interview?

Answer 4

Reading a prepared questionnaire to respondents

This type of interview follows a fixed format.

Question 5

What is an unstructured interview?

Answer 5

Asking no direct questions and prompting respondents to reflect

This allows for more open-ended responses.

Question 6

What is a semi-structured interview?

Answer 6

Lies between structured and unstructured interviews

Combines elements of both types.

Question 7

What factors influence the choice between structured and unstructured interviews?

Answer 7

• Fixed set of questions
• Way information is recorded
• Types of questions
• Extent of control by interviewer

The choice depends on the type of information desired.

Question 8

What type of information is typically gathered through structured interviews?

Answer 8

• Basic data
• History taking

Examples include frequency of symptoms or family medical history.

Question 9

What type of information is typically gathered through unstructured interviews?

Answer 9

• Conceptualization/interpretation
• Management of long-term problems

Examples include understanding a condition or daily management strategies.

Question 10

List the advantages of structured interviews.

Answer 10

• Less time consuming
• Same information collected for all respondents

This ensures consistency in data collection.

Question 11

List the disadvantages of structured interviews.

Answer 11

• Responses may not be recorded in respondents’ own words

This can introduce bias in interpretation.

Question 12

List the advantages of unstructured interviews.

Answer 12

• Responses recorded in words of respondents
• Less bias through interpretation
• Respondent has input into research agenda

This allows for richer, more nuanced data.

Question 13

List the disadvantages of unstructured interviews.

Answer 13

• More time consuming
• Not all same information collected for all respondents

This can lead to inconsistencies in data.

Question 14

What are the benefits of conducting in-person interviews?

Answer 14

• Allows observation of non-verbal reactions
• Develops closer rapport

However, it requires travel time and costs for participants.

Question 15

What are the benefits of conducting telephone interviews?

Answer 15

• Less costly/time consuming
• Easier disclosure of sensitive information if interviewer is trusted

Establishing credibility is important.

Question 16

What are the benefits of using video-conferencing platforms for interviews?

Answer 16

Combination of in-person and telephone methods

This allows for visual interaction while being cost-effective.

Question 17

What is the purpose of the response schedule/answer checklist in the interview process?

Answer 17

To record e.g. gender, age, areas for recording the answers

Generally completed during the interview for more valid/reliable results.

Question 18

What are free form (unstructured) notes used for in the interview process?

Answer 18

To record salient information during or after the interview

Content is distilled by the interviewer into notes.

Question 19

What is a potential disadvantage of using free form notes?

Answer 19

Intimidating and distracting for some respondents

This can affect the quality of the information gathered.

Question 20

What is the purpose of the follow-up in the interview process?

Answer 20

• May give copies of findings
• May ask if interpretation is valid

Important in qualitative research to ensure accuracy.

Question 21

The appropriateness of the method of recording interview information is determined by what?

Answer 21

The needs of the person using the information

Example: Basic data such as age, sex, and symptom profile of a patient.

Question 22

What are the advantages of video recording in interviews?

Answer 22

• Full transcripts of interview possible
• Non-verbal data available
• Accessible to independent analysis

However, it can be intrusive and may lead to less disclosure.

Question 23

What are the disadvantages of audio recording in interviews?

Answer 23

• Intrusive (but probably less than video)
• Reduced disclosure
• Needs substantial and costly post-interview analysis

May lead to greater refusal to participate.

Question 24

What are the advantages of using response sheets in interviews?

Answer 24

• Same data recorded for all interviews
• Little post-interview analysis required
• Less cost

However, unexpected answers are not well accommodated.

Question 25

What is a **focus group**?

Answer 25

Eliciting values, preferences, and ideas from groups of people ## Footnote Facilitator introduces topics/questions and facilitates discussion.

Question 26

What type of analysis can be performed on a **transcript of a focus group conversation**?

Answer 26

* Quantitative analysis * Count # of words by participants * Count number of positive/negative responses ## Footnote Can be used to test hypotheses.

Question 27

What are the two types of **qualitative analysis** of interview data?

Answer 27

* Descriptive (ethnography) * Theoretical ## Footnote Descriptive is written from the participant's perspective; theoretical attempts to develop/verify theories.

Question 28

What is the first step in organizing data in interviews?

Answer 28

Study transcripts to become familiar ## Footnote This helps in identifying concepts, themes, and ideas.

Question 29

What are some **key concepts and ideas** identified in dietary interviews?

Answer 29

* Diet motivation: family health history * Benefits: improved energy levels * Challenges: social pressure, cravings ## Footnote These concepts help in understanding dietary changes.

Question 30

What does the code **MOTIV** refer to in dietary interviews?

Answer 30

Motivation for diet ## Footnote Related to reasons for adopting dietary changes.

Question 31

What does the code **BENEFIT** refer to in dietary interviews?

Answer 31

Perceived benefits ## Footnote Associated with positive outcomes of dietary change.

Question 32

What does the code **CHALL** refer to in dietary interviews?

Answer 32

Dietary challenges ## Footnote Refers to difficulties sticking to the diet.

Question 33

What is the final step in the **coding and thematic analysis** process?

Answer 33

Interpret meanings and develop themes ## Footnote Example themes include health-driven motivation and social challenges.