Question 1: Define what is meant by a structured interview in sociological research.

Answer: A structured interview is a data collection method where the interviewer asks a fixed set of questions in a specific order, often using a questionnaire. It aims to produce quantifiable data and minimizes interviewer bias.

Question 2: List two advantages of using interviews in sociological research.

Answer: 1. They allow the researcher to gather detailed and in-depth responses. 2. They can clarify questions immediately, reducing misunderstandings.

Question 3: List two limitations or disadvantages of using interviews.

Answer: 1. They can be time-consuming and expensive to conduct. 2. Respondents may give socially desirable answers, affecting validity.

Question 4: Explain how unstructured interviews differ from structured interviews.

Answer: Unstructured interviews are more flexible, with open-ended questions and a conversational style, allowing respondents to express their views freely. Structured interviews follow a fixed set of questions in a specific order.

Question 5: Describe a scenario where a semi-structured interview would be appropriate in sociological research.

Answer: A researcher studying teenagers' attitudes towards social media might use semi-structured interviews to explore their opinions while allowing flexibility to probe interesting responses.

Question 6: What are the ethical considerations that a researcher must keep in mind when conducting interviews?

Answer: Ensuring informed consent, maintaining confidentiality, avoiding harm or distress, and being honest about the research purpose.

Question 7: Sketch a simple diagram illustrating the flow of conducting an interview, including stages such as preparation, interview, and analysis. Label each stage.

Answer: The diagram should show a linear flow with four stages: 1. Preparation (research design, question planning), 2. Conducting the interview (interviewer and respondent), 3. Transcription (recording responses), 4. Analysis (interpreting data).

Question 8: Explain why rapport building is important in qualitative interviews.

Answer: Rapport helps respondents feel comfortable and willing to share honest and detailed responses, increasing the quality of data collected.

Question 9: Identify one potential bias that could occur in interviews and suggest a way to minimize it.

Answer: Social desirability bias, where respondents give answers they think are acceptable rather than truthful. To minimize this, the interviewer can assure confidentiality and create a non-judgmental environment.

Question 10: Sketch a brief plan for conducting a sociological interview with a young adult about their experiences of education. Include key questions you would ask.

Answer: The plan should include an introduction explaining the purpose, key questions such as 'Can you describe your experiences in school?', 'How do you feel about your education?', and 'What changes would you like to see?'. The sketch should outline the flow from introduction to main questions to closing remarks.

Question 11: Discuss one ethical issue that might arise when interviewing vulnerable groups, such as minors or individuals with mental health issues.

Answer: A key issue is obtaining informed consent, especially if the individual cannot fully understand the research purpose. Researchers must ensure consent is voluntary and consider involving guardians if appropriate. Protecting the participant’s well-being is also crucial.