ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of using interviews as a data collection approach, along with information about their advantages and disadvantages. It describes the range of different types of interviews used in qualitative research, as well as some of the different modes through which they may be accomplished. The chapter provides information about how to write effective interview questions and protocols. It also provides tips for ensuring good interviews. Interviews are the most common method of gathering data for qualitative research and are an integral part of most of the research traditions. In a semi-structured interview, the researcher not only follows some preset questions but also includes additional questions in response to participant comments and reactions. In an unstructured interview, the researcher has a goal and plan in mind but does not use a structured interview protocol.
