Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Ending the Interview
• When time is up, say so and make it clear that the interview can end now.
Many interviewees want to keep on talking and some save their most
insightful remarks until the end. For this reason, do not schedule back-
to-back interviews and be flexible with your time.
• Thank the interviewee, ask if he or she has any questions, present a token
gift, and explain the next steps.
• Always send a formal thank you note afterward.
Observation
Preparation
• Negotiate entry into the site by making contacts with people within the
organization who can grant you access, give you information, and make
arrangements such as getting identification badges, space for your per-
sonal items, access to schedules, etc.
• Put aside the time for observation; there should be no other demands on
your time. Also put aside time for writing field notes after the observa-
tion is complete.
• Have some initial research questions in mind so that you can focus your
attention in a general way.
• Dress so that you blend into your surroundings, and dress comfortably,
since you will probably be doing a lot of walking.
Getting Started
• If you have an appointment to observe someone, have your contact
person introduce you, be prepared to give a two-sentence summary of
the study's purpose, have information sheets available in case the infor-
mant wants to know more, and go over and sign the consent form if it is
needed.
• If you are doing a “lay-of-the-land” visit, pick a place in the flow of
activity and simply watch for a while and pay particular attention during
transitions in the activities, such as shift changes.
Data Recording
• Take notes briefly and occasionally and step out of the situation often to
work on your jottings in more detail.
• If you want to dictate notes into a small tape recorder, do this outside
the situation; if you do a short informal interview with the recorder, step
away so no one is disturbed.
• Include jottings about personal, theory, observational, and methods issues
in your notes.
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