Here is some general advice:
Learn as much as you can about your interviewee and the proposed topic of your research BEFORE you begin.
Prepare and read your introduction – something that should be standard on every tape
Get written informed consent
Get verbal assent on tape
Start with easy questions
When you change topics, explain why
Do not interrupt
Try to keep eye contact
Avoid cutting people off or asking irrelevant questions
Ask open questions – questions that demand an essay as an answer
Ask good follow up questions
Ask why
Ask for clarification
Equipment:
- notepads or notebooks
- pens/pencils
- recorder of some type
- batteries for recorder, plus back ups
- extension cord, masking tape, if using electrical power
- If possible, a backup recorder
Write and send a ‘thank you’ note!
