Question

Task

Critically appraise semi structured interviews as a means to collecting and analysing qualitative data. Within your response you must evaluate this method in terms of the most appropriate sampling strategy to employ (justifying this decision) and how to analyse and write up subsequent data.

start with an assessment of semi structured interviews. That said some understanding of this method. Further detail through using additional research would have been helpful. Sampling is adequately handled. Data analysis does draw out some relevant issues. A more detailed explanation of the MIles and Huberman approach would have added value.

Answer 1

Semi Structured Interviews :-

1) A Semi Structured Interview is a interpersonal meeting between the interviewer and the candidate where the interviewer does not follow a formalised list of questions .

2) The interviewer asks general questions and even take up follow up questions to gain more in - depth understanding .

3) This type of approach helps the employer to understand the attributes of the individual outside of the formal line of questioning.

Appropriate Sampling strategy :-

1) Analysing of the job requirements.

2) Building up of job profile .

3) Development of questions and conversation starters .

4) Revising interview questions along with followup questions

5) While taking an interview following things should be kept in mind :-

a) Building up correct atmosphere and proper timing.

b) Noticing all reactions.

Miles and Huberman data analysing tetechniques :-

Miles and Huberman have distributed data analysis into 4 stages :-

1) DATA REDUCTION :-

It includes choices about which aspects of the assembled data should be emphasized , minimised or set aside for the job profile .

2) DATA DISPLAY :-

It is an organised , compressed assembly of operations that permits conclusion drawing .

3) DATA CONCLUSION :-

This element involves finding out the meaning of analysed data and assessing it's implications.

4) DATA VERIFICATION :-

This step involves re visiting the data to cross check and verify the emergent conclusions.