Semi-structured interviewing as a Participatory Action Research method

Introduction

This tutorial focuses on the technique of semi-structured interviewing as a method of Participatory Action Research (PAR). It provides practical tips for improving your interviewing skills, highlighting the value of this approach in gathering qualitative data. By understanding the steps involved, you can effectively conduct interviews that yield insightful information, especially in challenging environments.

Step 1: Prepare for the Interview

• Define your objectives: Clearly outline what you want to achieve with the interview. This helps in formulating relevant questions.
• Know your participants: Research the background of the individuals you’ll be interviewing to tailor your questions accordingly.
• Create a flexible interview guide: Develop a list of open-ended questions that allows for follow-up queries and deeper exploration of topics.
• Test your questions: Practice with a colleague or friend to refine your questions and ensure they are clear and engaging.

Step 2: Establish Rapport

• Start with small talk: Engage in casual conversation to make the interviewee feel comfortable.
• Be respectful and empathetic: Acknowledge the participant's feelings and experiences, especially if discussing sensitive topics.
• Use active listening: Show genuine interest in their responses by nodding, maintaining eye contact, and providing verbal affirmations.

Step 3: Conduct the Interview

• Follow your guide but remain flexible: While it's important to stick to your questions, be open to exploring unexpected topics that arise.
• Encourage storytelling: Prompt participants to share their experiences in their own words, which can lead to richer data.
• Take notes and record (with permission): Document key points during the interview for later analysis.

Step 4: Analyze the Data

• Transcribe recordings: Convert your audio notes into written form to facilitate analysis.
• Identify themes and patterns: Look for recurring ideas or sentiments that emerge from the interviews.
• Reflect on your findings: Consider how the data aligns with your initial objectives and what new insights have emerged.

Step 5: Share Your Findings

• Prepare a report or presentation: Summarize the key insights and themes from your interviews.
• Engage stakeholders: Share your findings with relevant parties, particularly those who can benefit from the insights gathered through your research.

Conclusion

Semi-structured interviewing is a powerful tool in Participatory Action Research, enabling researchers to gather nuanced insights from participants. By following these steps—preparing effectively, establishing rapport, conducting thoughtful interviews, analyzing data, and sharing findings—you can enhance your interviewing skills and contribute valuable knowledge to your field. Consider practicing your skills in various settings to build confidence and proficiency.