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Method Training: Conducting Interviews (Introduction)

Discover the world of interviews - This is how we truly get to know people!

Why are interviews so exciting?

Imagine you could look into the thoughts of other people. What would they be thinking? How do they see the world? Interviews are like a window into the lives of others - and you can open that window a little bit!

Social science interviews

Read the following info box to learn more about interviews in the field of social sciences.

What is a social science interview?

Definition

A social science interview is a conversation in which one person (the interviewer) asks another person (the interviewee) questions to learn more about their experiences, opinions, and feelings.

Why are interviews conducted?

Social scientists use interviews to learn more about people and their stories. It helps to gain a better understanding of different perspectives and cultures.

Examples of interviews in practice

A journalist interviews a politician about current issues.
A sociologist talks to young people about their visions for the future.
An anthropologist interviews villagers about their traditional festivals.

Conducting a social science interview

Use this space to copy the mind map from the board.

Additional information for teachers

Sample solution for the mind map

How do I conduct an interview?

Watch the following video, then answer the corresponding questions.

Choose the correct answer for each question.

Different types of interviews

Structured interview

The interviewer has a fixed list of questions that are asked in a specific order.

Unstructured interview

The conversation is open, and the interviewer responds flexibly to the interviewee's answers.

Semi-structured interview

A mix of both: There are some prepared questions, but also room for spontaneous questions.

Group task: Match the interview type to the topics

Read through the different types of interviews and then decide for each topic which interview type is most suitable:

Topic 1: "The Impact of Social Media on Teenagers"

Topic 2: "The Story of a World War II Eyewitness"

Topic 3: "Students' Opinions on Healthy Eating in School"

Now, write down the appropriate interview type and a brief justification for each topic.

Conducting an interview

Reflection - What makes a good interview?

Personalize the worksheet

Enter a topic area for students to conduct interviews.

Method Training: Conducting Interviews (Introduction)

Use this worksheet to teach your students how to conduct interviews in the field of social sciences. They learn the importance of interviews, and which questions are suitable for which topics.

Personalize the worksheet

Enter a topic area for students to conduct interviews.

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Sample solutions to all exercises.

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