I was aware of the types of data collection methods that suit qualitative research (such as interviews, surveys, case studies, experimental, etc.) however, I initially found it difficult to choose methods that would best fit my research. For example, I was concerned that by observing dance teachers during class, the teacher would feel pressure and alter their teaching methods, meaning the data I collect wouldn't be authentic. I was also concerned that by engaging with participants face-to-face they wouldn't feel comfortable sharing information. Although I considered this carefully, I now realise there will be complications with every type of data collection method. How we interpret the data collected is equally as important.
Sam led a Zoom session last week about interviews. I found it insightful and will definitely be using his tips when I begin collecting data next module. Some of the tips he shared were...
Even if you know the participants personally, you can never predict what they will say. Don't go into the interview with any fixed ideas. Have an open mind.
The aim of interviews is to collect stories. This is actually the reason I chose to do interviews as a data collection method as I am interested to learn about the teaching methods that dance teachers have adopted and why. What do the dance teacher's stories tell me about dance education? I am excited to find out.
Start by asking a simple question (i.e. "How did you get into your field of practice?") to break the ice. Then, ensure you actively listen to the participants. This might be difficult (especially as first-time researchers) which is why it's important to use a dictaphone to record the interviews. Also, ensure to engage with the participants by showing interest; give eye contact, respond and pick up on key points. It is also important not to offer opposing views on topics, we can simply acknowledge their opinions and move on.
I am excited to do interviews, but also quite scared. Although there is a lot to consider, it is also important to remember that we don't have to do everything. 5 main questions are enough. And by the time we get to it next module, we will be more prepared and it will feel more natural (I hope).
I have now received my feedback for my Proposal and am slightly overwhelmed with the notes I received. One note was to give a flavour to the type of questions I will ask in my interviews. Sam suggested looking at 'The Ethnographic Interview' by James Spradley but it's not available in the Online Library. If anyone has any tips on how to approach this, I would really appreciate it.
References
Bhandari, P., 2021. Data Collection | A Step-by-Step Guide with Methods and Examples. [online] Scribbr. Available at: <https://www.scribbr.com/methodology/data-collection/> [Accessed 19 April 2021].
Granada Preparatory School, 2021. job-interview-clipart-243. [image] Available at: <https://chaschool.org/staff/pam-green/job-interview-clipart-243/> [Accessed 19 April 2021].
Spradley, J., 2021. The Ethnographic Interview.
