Fieldwork And Ethnography Questions
There are several different types of interviews commonly used in fieldwork and ethnography. These include:
1. Structured interviews: These interviews follow a predetermined set of questions and are conducted in a standardized manner. The questions are usually closed-ended, allowing for easy comparison and analysis of responses.
2. Semi-structured interviews: These interviews combine both predetermined questions and the flexibility to explore additional topics or follow-up on interesting responses. The interviewer has a general outline but can adapt the conversation based on the participant's responses.
3. Unstructured interviews: Also known as open-ended interviews, these allow for a free-flowing conversation without a specific set of questions. The interviewer encourages participants to share their experiences, thoughts, and opinions on a particular topic.
4. Group interviews: These involve interviewing multiple participants simultaneously, allowing for group dynamics and interactions to shape the conversation. Group interviews can provide insights into shared experiences and collective perspectives.
5. Key informant interviews: These interviews focus on individuals who possess specialized knowledge or expertise on a particular topic. Key informants are often selected based on their position, experience, or influence within a community or organization.
6. Life history interviews: These interviews aim to capture a person's life experiences, often focusing on significant events, transitions, and personal narratives. Life history interviews provide a comprehensive understanding of an individual's life and the broader social context.
7. Elite interviews: These interviews target individuals in positions of power or authority, such as politicians, policymakers, or community leaders. Elite interviews aim to gain insights into decision-making processes, power dynamics, and policy influences.
It is important for researchers to choose the appropriate interview type based on their research objectives, the nature of the topic, and the target population.