1. 2010-05WFP Initial EFSA Learning Session 2.3. Semi-structured Interviewing 1

2. 2010-05WFP Initial EFSA Learning Session Objectives After this session, participants should be able to: advantages and disadvantages of using such techniques in an initial EFSADescribe the process of preparing a semi- structured interview as well as the advantages and disadvantages of using such techniques in an initial EFSA Conduct a semi-structured interview to a community or other group 2

3. 2010-05WFP Initial EFSA Learning Advantages of the Semi-Structured Interview? Provides quick, qualitative info, rough estimates of magnitude of crisis (what decision makers need to launch an operation)Provides quick, qualitative info, rough estimates of magnitude of crisis (what decision makers need to launch an operation) Helps clarify problems and priorities of interviewees (rather than of interviewer)Helps clarify problems and priorities of interviewees (rather than of interviewer) FlexibleFlexible Descriptive: produces descriptive info useful for advocacy effortsDescriptive: produces descriptive info useful for advocacy efforts 3

4. 2010-05WFP Initial EFSA Learning Disadvantages of the Semi-Structured Interview? High degree of subjectivity, requires much interpretation; biases will be present Non-representative data: interviewees may not be representative of actual population; therefore data cannot be extrapolated with any statistical validity Worst-case scenario: often a tendency to over- estimate impact 4

5. 2010-05WFP Initial EFSA Learning Guiding Principles: semi-structured interviewing “Optimal ignorance”“Optimal ignorance” “Appropriate imprecision”“Appropriate imprecision” Learning from, with the peopleLearning from, with the people TriangulationTriangulation 5

6. 2010-05WFP Initial EFSA Learning  With 6-12 people, much info quickly  Members with common characteristics are more likely to discuss sensitive issues  Raise pre-defined issues, ask group to discuss but be flexible; allow the unexpected to be discussed  Prevent the few from dominating discussions  Record discussion, agree on method of doing so  Remember: Individual views may not be voiced due to group pressures Semi-Structured Interviews with Groups 6

7. 2010-05WFP Initial EFSA Learning Interviewing tips… No leading questions - allow them to tell their storyNo leading questions - allow them to tell their story No close-ended questions – they impede discussionNo close-ended questions – they impede discussion Probe as needed for clearer response:Probe as needed for clearer response: –Repeat the question: this gives more time to think –Pause for the answer: a thoughtful nod or expectant look can show you want more –Repeat the reply: this can stimulate conversation. –Ask when, what, where, which, and how: these can provoke more detailed information. –Use neutral comments: Anything else? Why do you feel this way? 7

8. 2010-05WFP Initial EFSA Learning Small Group Task Exercise 8. Interviewing Game Two Initial EFSA teams, 2 members each Two community groups, 3 members each 20 minutes for teams to prepare semi-structured interviews based on flood data collection tool (during which community group members will prepare roles) 40 minutes for interviews 8

9. 2010-05WFP Initial EFSA Learning Debriefing Initial EFSA teams: Did you accomplish your aims? Why do you think so? Community Groups: Were the teams effective? (Did they learn what was really going on?) Initial EFSA teams: What worked well? What didn’t? What would you change? Community Groups: What do you think worked well? How did you feel during the interviews? 9