Support the spread of “good practice” in generating, managing, analysing and communicating spatial information Documentation Interviewing Techniques By: Jon Corbett and Kasondra White Unit: M14U02

Introduction Exploring and documenting experiences and knowledge Preparing for the interview Interviewing styles Interviewing techniques Mapping interviews

Preparing for the interview A good interview is like a good conversation Understand the topic of discussion Draft preliminary questions

Making initial contact Explain purpose to potential interviewees Inform potential interviewees about: - information about the project - how long the interview will last - where it will take place - who will be present - what will be expected of the interviewee

Equipment Types of equipment: - audio recorders - microphones - video cameras Interviewers should: - learn the basics of using the equipment - ensure that batteries are fully charged - check that the device is recording throughout the interview

Choosing a location Free of distractions Easily accessible for interviewee Ask interviewees where they would feel most comfortable Avoid background noise

Setting up the interview Positioning the recording device Seating the interviewee: - Is there a door that may open? - Are there open windows? - Is there an audible television or radio? - Are there any other devices nearby that may detract from the quality of the recording? Balancing sound quality with comfort of interviewee

Asking questions Good questionsBad questions Inspire discussion Generate important and interesting information about the topic Flow naturally with the conversation Make the interviewee feel comfortable and at ease Don’t provide insight about an interesting topic Can upset the interviewees or make them feel awkward Will disengage the interviewee Can disrupt the flow of conversation

What, where, who, how, why, when Formula for getting the full story What types of information are sought? Ask questions that will produce the most information about the topic

Open-ended vs. closed-ended questions Open-ended: - cannot be answered with “yes” or “no” - more conversational - can help an interviewee open up Closed-ended: - can be answered with “yes” or “no” - provides specific information - can help warm up an interviewee at the outset

Wording of questions Shapes the way an interviewee will answer Neutral phrasing Leading questioning Questions: one at a time and clearly asked Use “why” questions with caution

Active listening Listening to and interacting with the interviewee Achieved by: - facing the interviewee - maintaining eye contact - responding appropriately - focusing on what is being said - not interrupting - keeping an open mind Do not overuse

Acknowledging answers Can be distracting Will be heard on final recording Should be timely and kept to a minimum Non-verbal cues: –head nodding –smiling –eye contact

Paraphrasing Restatement in the interviewer’s own words Shows understanding Done in a timely manner Do not interrupt interviewee

Mapping and interviews Tool for focusing on land-related information Can stimulate memories Ensure interviewee is familiar with map format Encourage interviewees to draw on the map

Concluding the interview Is there anything you’d like to add? Review notes for unasked questions Wrap up the interview Thank the respondent