10.4 Interviewing techniques

Interviewing techniques are essential tools for performance studies researchers. They allow for the collection of rich, qualitative data about lived experiences and cultural practices. Different types of interviews serve various purposes, enabling exploration of diverse aspects of performance and its social contexts.

Understanding the strengths and limitations of each interview type helps researchers choose the most appropriate method for their specific research questions. From structured to unstructured approaches, individual to group settings, and in-person to remote formats, each technique offers unique advantages for gathering meaningful data in performance studies research.

Types of interviews

• Interviewing techniques form a crucial part of performance studies research, allowing researchers to gather rich, qualitative data about lived experiences and cultural practices
• Different types of interviews serve various purposes within performance studies, enabling researchers to explore diverse aspects of performance and its social contexts
• Understanding the strengths and limitations of each interview type helps researchers choose the most appropriate method for their specific research questions

Structured vs unstructured interviews

Top images from around the web for Structured vs unstructured interviews

• 

  Interviewing Others | Public Speaking View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Frontiers | It Takes Two: The Round-Robin Methodology for Investigative Interviewing Research View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Interviewing Others | Public Speaking View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Frontiers | It Takes Two: The Round-Robin Methodology for Investigative Interviewing Research View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 2

Top images from around the web for Structured vs unstructured interviews

• 

  Interviewing Others | Public Speaking View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Frontiers | It Takes Two: The Round-Robin Methodology for Investigative Interviewing Research View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Interviewing Others | Public Speaking View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Frontiers | It Takes Two: The Round-Robin Methodology for Investigative Interviewing Research View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 2

• Structured interviews follow a predetermined set of questions in a fixed order
  • Ensure consistency across multiple interviews
  • Facilitate easier comparison and analysis of responses
• Unstructured interviews use open-ended questions and allow for a more conversational flow
  • Provide flexibility to explore unexpected topics that arise during the interview
  • Allow interviewees to share their experiences in their own words and narrative structure
• Semi-structured interviews combine elements of both approaches
  • Use a guide of predetermined questions while allowing for follow-up and exploration

Individual vs group interviews

• Individual interviews offer in-depth exploration of personal experiences and perspectives
  • Create a private environment for discussing sensitive topics
  • Allow for detailed probing of individual narratives and memories
• Group interviews (focus groups) facilitate discussion and interaction among participants
  • Generate diverse perspectives and reveal group dynamics
  • Useful for exploring shared cultural experiences or collective memories
• Dyadic interviews involve two participants interviewed together
  • Particularly effective for studying relationships or shared experiences (couples, siblings)

In-person vs remote interviews

• In-person interviews allow for direct observation of nonverbal cues and environment
  • Facilitate building rapport and trust with interviewees
  • Provide opportunities to incorporate visual aids or artifacts into the interview process
• Remote interviews use technology to connect researcher and participant across distances
  • Offer access to geographically diverse participants
  • Include various formats (phone, video calls, email, instant messaging)
• Hybrid approaches combine elements of in-person and remote interviewing
  • Use technology to enhance face-to-face interviews (screen sharing, digital artifacts)

Interview preparation

• Thorough preparation is essential for conducting effective interviews in performance studies research
• Proper planning ensures that interviews yield rich, relevant data while respecting participants' time and experiences
• Preparation involves multiple stages, from initial research to logistical considerations

Research and background information

• Conduct literature review on the research topic and cultural context
  • Identify key concepts, debates, and gaps in existing knowledge
  • Develop a theoretical framework to guide interview questions and analysis
• Gather information about interviewees and their backgrounds
  • Research participants' professional or artistic work, if relevant
  • Understand cultural norms and practices that may influence the interview process
• Familiarize yourself with the historical and social context of the performance practices being studied
  • Identify significant events or changes that may have shaped participants' experiences

Question development

• Create a list of core questions aligned with research objectives
  • Ensure questions are clear, concise, and free from jargon
  • Develop questions that encourage detailed, reflective responses
• Organize questions in a logical sequence
  • Start with general, easy-to-answer questions to build rapport
  • Progress to more specific or sensitive topics as the interview proceeds
• Prepare potential follow-up questions or prompts
  • Anticipate possible responses and plan probing questions
  • Include questions that explore sensory and embodied experiences of performance

Logistics and scheduling

• Choose appropriate interview locations or platforms
  • Consider privacy, comfort, and accessibility for participants
  • Test technology and backup options for remote interviews
• Develop a realistic timeline for conducting interviews
  • Allow sufficient time between interviews for reflection and preliminary analysis
  • Consider participants' schedules and potential time zone differences
• Prepare necessary materials and equipment
  • Organize consent forms, recording devices, and note-taking supplies
  • Create an interview guide or protocol document for personal reference

Interviewing skills

• Effective interviewing skills are crucial for gathering rich, meaningful data in performance studies research
• These skills help create a comfortable environment for participants to share their experiences and perspectives
• Developing strong interviewing skills requires practice, self-reflection, and ongoing refinement

Active listening techniques

• Practice attentive body language to show engagement
  • Maintain appropriate eye contact and open posture
  • Use subtle nodding or verbal affirmations to encourage continued sharing
• Employ reflective listening to confirm understanding
  • Paraphrase or summarize key points made by the interviewee
  • Ask for clarification or elaboration on ambiguous statements
• Allow for silences and pauses in the conversation
  • Give interviewees time to reflect and formulate their thoughts
  • Resist the urge to fill every moment with questions or comments

Rapport building strategies

• Begin with informal conversation to create a relaxed atmosphere
  • Discuss neutral topics or shared interests before starting the formal interview
  • Use appropriate humor or personal anecdotes to establish connection
• Demonstrate genuine interest in the interviewee's experiences
  • Ask follow-up questions that show you're engaged with their responses
  • Acknowledge the value of their unique perspective and knowledge
• Adapt your communication style to match the interviewee's preferences
  • Pay attention to their pace, tone, and level of formality
  • Respect cultural norms and individual boundaries in interaction

Nonverbal communication awareness

• Monitor your own nonverbal cues to ensure they convey openness and interest
  • Maintain a relaxed facial expression and avoid crossing arms or legs
  • Use hand gestures thoughtfully to emphasize points or invite elaboration
• Observe and interpret the interviewee's nonverbal signals
  • Notice changes in body language, tone of voice, or facial expressions
  • Use these observations to guide follow-up questions or adjust your approach
• Consider the impact of physical space and positioning
  • Arrange seating to promote comfort and equality in the conversation
  • Be mindful of personal space preferences, which may vary culturally

Question formulation

• Crafting effective questions is a critical skill in performance studies interviewing
• Well-formulated questions elicit rich, detailed responses that provide insight into participants' experiences and perspectives
• Different types of questions serve various purposes within the interview process

Open-ended vs closed questions

• Open-ended questions encourage detailed, descriptive responses
  • Begin with words like "how," "why," or "tell me about"
  • Allow interviewees to share their experiences in their own words
• Closed questions elicit specific, often brief answers
  • Typically answered with "yes," "no," or short factual responses
  • Useful for gathering precise information or clarifying details
• Balance open-ended and closed questions throughout the interview
  • Start with open-ended questions to explore broad topics
  • Use closed questions to follow up on specific points or gather concrete details

Probing and follow-up questions

• Develop probing questions to encourage deeper reflection
  • Ask "Can you tell me more about that?" to elicit additional details
  • Use "What do you mean by...?" to clarify ambiguous statements
• Formulate follow-up questions based on interviewee responses
  • Explore unexpected themes or experiences that emerge during the conversation
  • Connect new information to previously discussed topics or research questions
• Practice active listening to identify opportunities for probing
  • Pay attention to emotional cues or hesitations that may indicate deeper stories
  • Look for contradictions or gaps in the narrative that require further exploration

Avoiding leading questions

• Craft neutral questions that don't suggest a desired response
  • Rephrase questions that contain assumptions or biases
  • Use "How do you feel about...?" instead of "Don't you think...?"
• Be aware of subtle linguistic cues that may influence answers
  • Avoid loaded terms or emotionally charged language
  • Present multiple options when asking about preferences or opinions
• Focus on the interviewee's perspective rather than confirming hypotheses
  • Ask "What was your experience of...?" instead of "Did you experience...?"
  • Allow space for responses that may challenge your preconceptions or expectations

Interview structure

• A well-structured interview helps guide the conversation while allowing for flexibility and exploration
• The structure provides a framework for gathering comprehensive data aligned with research objectives
• Effective interview structure balances consistency across interviews with responsiveness to individual participants

Opening and introduction

• Begin with a warm greeting and brief personal introduction
  • Establish a friendly, professional tone for the interaction
  • Provide context about your role and the purpose of the research
• Review and obtain informed consent
  • Explain confidentiality measures and how data will be used
  • Clarify the participant's rights, including the option to skip questions or end the interview
• Set expectations for the interview process
  • Outline the general topics to be covered and estimated duration
  • Invite questions or concerns before proceeding to the main interview

Body of the interview

• Start with broad, easy-to-answer questions to build rapport
  • Begin with questions about the participant's background or general experiences
  • Gradually transition to more specific or potentially sensitive topics
• Use a funnel approach to explore key themes
  • Move from general to more specific questions within each topic area
  • Allow for natural transitions between different themes or subjects
• Maintain flexibility in question order and phrasing
  • Adapt to the flow of conversation and the participant's responses
  • Follow up on unexpected but relevant information as it emerges

Closing and wrap-up

• Signal the approaching end of the interview
  • Inform the participant that you have a few final questions
  • Provide an opportunity for them to add any additional thoughts or reflections
• Ask summarizing or reflective questions
  • Invite the participant to share their overall impressions or key takeaways
  • Explore how the interview experience may have affected their perspective
• Express gratitude and provide next steps
  • Thank the participant for their time and valuable contributions
  • Explain what will happen next with the data and how they can stay informed about the research

Ethical considerations

• Ethical practices are fundamental to conducting responsible and respectful research in performance studies
• Adhering to ethical principles protects participants, maintains research integrity, and builds trust within communities
• Researchers must navigate complex ethical considerations throughout the interview process

Informed consent

• Develop clear, comprehensive consent forms
  • Explain the research purpose, procedures, and potential risks or benefits
  • Use language accessible to participants, avoiding jargon or technical terms
• Ensure participants understand their rights and the voluntary nature of participation
  • Emphasize the right to withdraw at any time without consequences
  • Clarify how data will be used, stored, and potentially shared
• Obtain ongoing consent throughout the research process
  • Reconfirm consent for sensitive topics or unexpected directions in the interview
  • Address any new concerns or questions that arise during the interaction

Confidentiality and privacy

• Implement robust data protection measures
  • Use secure storage systems for audio recordings, transcripts, and notes
  • Develop a system for anonymizing or pseudonymizing participant information
• Clearly communicate limits of confidentiality
  • Explain circumstances where confidentiality might be breached (legal obligations)
  • Discuss how identifiable information will be handled in publications or presentations
• Respect participants' privacy preferences
  • Allow participants to choose interview locations or platforms they feel comfortable with
  • Offer options for varying levels of anonymity in research outputs

Cultural sensitivity

• Conduct background research on cultural norms and practices
  • Familiarize yourself with appropriate greetings, gestures, and topics of conversation
  • Understand potential taboos or sensitive subjects within the cultural context
• Adapt interview approaches to align with cultural expectations
  • Consider gender dynamics, age hierarchies, or other social factors that may influence the interview
  • Be flexible in scheduling and pacing to accommodate cultural practices or events
• Engage with community leaders or cultural consultants when appropriate
  • Seek guidance on culturally respectful research practices
  • Involve community members in research design and interpretation when possible

Data collection methods

• Effective data collection is crucial for capturing the rich, nuanced information gathered during interviews in performance studies
• Different methods of data collection offer various advantages and challenges for researchers
• Choosing appropriate data collection methods impacts the quality and usability of interview data

Audio recording vs note-taking

• Audio recording captures verbatim speech and vocal nuances
  • Allows for full attention to the conversation without distraction of writing
  • Provides a complete record for later transcription and analysis
• Note-taking offers immediate synthesis and highlights key points
  • Useful for capturing non-verbal observations and researcher reflections
  • Serves as a backup in case of technical failures with recording equipment
• Combining audio recording with selective note-taking
  • Use notes to mark important moments or themes for later reference
  • Record initial impressions and contextual details not captured by audio

Transcription techniques

• Verbatim transcription includes all utterances, pauses, and fillers
  • Preserves the authentic voice and speech patterns of participants
  • Useful for detailed linguistic or conversational analysis
• Intelligent verbatim removes unnecessary repetitions and fillers
  • Improves readability while maintaining the essence of the conversation
  • Appropriate for most qualitative research purposes in performance studies
• Selective transcription focuses on specific themes or sections
  • Efficient for large-scale projects or when full transcription isn't necessary
  • Requires careful consideration to avoid losing important context or details

Data organization strategies

• Develop a consistent file naming and storage system
  • Use clear, standardized conventions for labeling audio files and transcripts
  • Create a secure, backed-up digital archive for all interview materials
• Create interview summaries or contact sheets
  • Summarize key points, themes, and initial observations shortly after each interview
  • Include contextual information about the interview setting and participant
• Use qualitative data analysis software for large projects
  • Organize transcripts, audio files, and notes in a centralized platform
  • Facilitate coding, annotation, and cross-referencing of data

Analysis and interpretation

• Analysis and interpretation transform raw interview data into meaningful insights for performance studies research
• This process involves systematic examination of data to identify patterns, themes, and relationships
• Effective analysis requires a balance of rigorous methodology and creative, interpretive thinking

Coding and categorizing data

• Develop a coding scheme based on research questions and emergent themes
  • Create initial codes through close reading of transcripts and field notes
  • Refine and organize codes into a hierarchical or thematic structure
• Apply codes systematically across all interview data
  • Use consistent criteria for assigning codes to segments of text
  • Allow for multiple codes to be applied to a single data segment when appropriate
• Regularly review and revise the coding scheme
  • Conduct team coding sessions to ensure inter-coder reliability
  • Adjust codes as new patterns or insights emerge during the analysis process

Thematic analysis

• Identify recurring patterns and themes across interviews
  • Look for commonalities and differences in participants' experiences and perspectives
  • Consider both explicit statements and implicit meanings within the data
• Explore relationships between themes
  • Examine how different themes intersect or influence each other
  • Develop visual maps or diagrams to represent thematic connections
• Connect themes to broader theoretical frameworks
  • Relate emergent themes to existing literature in performance studies
  • Consider how themes contribute to or challenge current understandings in the field

Narrative analysis

• Examine the structure and content of participants' stories
  • Analyze how interviewees construct and present their experiences
  • Consider the role of cultural narratives in shaping individual accounts
• Explore the performative aspects of storytelling within interviews
  • Attend to voice, rhythm, and embodied expressions in narrative delivery
  • Analyze how participants position themselves and others within their stories
• Interpret narratives within their social and cultural contexts
  • Consider how broader discourses influence personal narratives
  • Examine the interplay between individual stories and collective experiences

Challenges in interviewing

• Interviewing in performance studies presents various challenges that researchers must navigate
• Awareness of these challenges helps researchers prepare strategies to mitigate their impact
• Addressing challenges thoughtfully enhances the quality and ethical integrity of interview-based research

Bias and subjectivity

• Recognize and reflect on personal biases and assumptions
  • Keep a reflexive journal to document thoughts and reactions throughout the research process
  • Engage in peer debriefing to discuss potential biases and their impact on data collection and analysis
• Implement strategies to minimize bias in question formulation and delivery
  • Use neutral language and avoid leading questions
  • Prepare a diverse range of questions to explore multiple perspectives on a topic
• Acknowledge the role of subjectivity in qualitative research
  • Embrace reflexivity as a tool for understanding the researcher's influence on the study
  • Clearly articulate the researcher's positionality in research reports and publications

Power dynamics

• Be aware of inherent power imbalances between researcher and participant
  • Consider how factors like age, gender, race, and social status may influence the interview
  • Develop strategies to create a more equitable interview environment
• Empower participants to shape the interview process
  • Offer choices in interview location, timing, and topics to be discussed
  • Encourage participants to ask questions and provide feedback on the research
• Address power dynamics in data analysis and representation
  • Involve participants in member checking or collaborative analysis when appropriate
  • Critically examine how power relations may influence data interpretation and reporting

Language and communication barriers

• Prepare for linguistic differences between researcher and participants
  • Work with trained interpreters when conducting interviews in unfamiliar languages
  • Develop a glossary of key terms and concepts relevant to the research topic
• Adapt communication style to accommodate diverse needs
  • Use clear, simple language and avoid jargon or complex academic terms
  • Be prepared to rephrase questions or provide examples for clarity
• Attend to non-verbal and paralinguistic communication
  • Pay attention to gestures, facial expressions, and tone of voice
  • Consider cultural differences in non-verbal communication and their potential impact on the interview

Technology in interviews

• Technology plays an increasingly important role in conducting and analyzing interviews for performance studies research
• Digital tools offer new possibilities for data collection, management, and analysis
• Researchers must navigate the benefits and challenges of integrating technology into the interview process

Digital recording tools

• Choose appropriate recording devices for different interview settings
  • Use high-quality digital audio recorders for in-person interviews
  • Explore smartphone apps designed for professional audio recording
• Familiarize yourself with recording equipment features and settings
  • Test microphone sensitivity and placement for optimal sound quality
  • Understand file formats and storage capacities of different devices
• Implement backup recording strategies to prevent data loss
  • Use multiple recording devices simultaneously when possible
  • Regularly transfer and securely store audio files after each interview

Video conferencing platforms

• Select suitable platforms based on research needs and participant access
  • Consider factors like ease of use, video quality, and security features
  • Ensure compatibility with participants' devices and internet capabilities
• Prepare participants for successful video interviews
  • Provide clear instructions for accessing and using the chosen platform
  • Discuss strategies for creating a quiet, private space for the interview
• Adapt interviewing techniques for the digital environment
  • Pay attention to framing and eye contact in video calls
  • Develop strategies for building rapport and reading non-verbal cues online

Data analysis software

• Explore qualitative data analysis (QDA) software options
  • Consider programs like NVivo, Atlas.ti, or MAXQDA for large-scale projects
  • Evaluate free or open-source alternatives for smaller studies or limited budgets
• Utilize software features to enhance analysis processes
  • Use coding tools to organize and categorize interview data
  • Employ visualization features to map relationships between themes or concepts
• Integrate multimedia data within analysis software
  • Import audio and video files alongside transcripts for comprehensive analysis
  • Use timestamping features to link coded segments to original recordings

Specialized interview techniques

• Performance studies research often requires specialized interviewing approaches to capture unique aspects of performance and cultural practices
• These techniques allow researchers to delve deeper into specific areas of interest or work with particular populations
• Adapting interview methods to suit the research context enhances the richness and relevance of collected data

Life history interviews

• Focus on capturing the entire life narrative of participants
  • Explore how personal experiences intersect with broader cultural and historical contexts
  • Trace the development of performance practices or artistic careers over time
• Use timeline or chronological approaches to structure the interview
  • Begin with early memories and progress through significant life events
  • Allow participants to make connections between different life stages and experiences
• Incorporate visual or material aids to stimulate memory and reflection
  • Use photographs, objects, or performance artifacts as prompts for discussion
  • Encourage participants to create visual representations of their life journey

Expert interviews

• Tailor questions to the specific expertise and experience of the interviewee
  • Research the expert's background and contributions to their field beforehand
  • Prepare questions that demonstrate knowledge and engage with complex concepts
• Balance between structure and flexibility in the interview approach
  • Use a semi-structured format to cover key topics while allowing for expert insights
  • Be prepared to adapt questions based on the expert's unique perspective or knowledge
• Address challenges specific to interviewing experts
  • Manage power dynamics and establish credibility as a researcher
  • Navigate potential conflicts between expert opinions and existing literature

Focus group moderation

• Design focus group composition to facilitate productive discussion
  • Consider group size, diversity, and shared experiences among participants
  • Create a comfortable environment that encourages open dialogue
• Develop effective moderation techniques
  • Use icebreakers and warm-up activities to build rapport among participants
  • Employ strategies to manage dominant speakers and encourage quieter members to contribute
• Capture group dynamics and interactions in data collection
  • Pay attention to non-verbal cues and patterns of agreement or disagreement
  • Use observational notes to supplement audio recordings of group discussions