Structured interviews

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Interviews which are based on a strict interview schedule – a list of pre- set questions from which the interviewer should not deviate.

Question 2

Advantages

Answer 2

Standardised answers to standardised questions; all responders to faced with the same questions in the same order and format.
Pre-code answers makes data analysis easier.
High response rate as new respondents can be accessed if sample size drops
The presence of the interviewer to explain the question

Question 3

Limitations

Answer 3

Misinterpreted questions
Pre-coded standardized questions can be off-putting to respondents, resulting in lower validity or non-completion
Potential for interviewer effect through body language, tone of questioning and the social characteristics of the interviewer