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

Answer: A structured interview is a method where the interviewer asks a set of predetermined questions in a fixed order, often using close-ended questions to ensure consistency across interviews.

Question 2: List two advantages of using interviews as a research method in sociology.

Answer: 1. They allow for detailed responses and clarification of answers. 2. They can provide in-depth insights into individuals' perspectives.

Question 3: Identify and explain one potential limitation of conducting face-to-face interviews with participants from different cultural backgrounds.

Answer: Language barriers or cultural misunderstandings can lead to misinterpretation of questions or responses, affecting the validity of the data collected.

Question 4: Describe how a researcher might ensure ethical standards are maintained during interviews.

Answer: The researcher should obtain informed consent, ensure confidentiality, and explain the purpose of the research to participants before the interview begins.

Question 5: What is the main difference between a structured and an unstructured interview?

Answer: A structured interview follows a fixed set of questions with little flexibility, while an unstructured interview is more open-ended, allowing the conversation to flow naturally based on the participant's responses.

Question 6: Imagine you are conducting an interview with a teenager about their experiences of school life. Write two example questions you might ask.

Answer: 1. Can you describe a typical day at school? 2. How do you feel about the way teachers treat students?

Question 7: Draw a simple diagram illustrating the process of conducting a personal interview, including the steps from preparation to data analysis.

Answer: A diagram showing: Step 1 - Planning and designing questions; Step 2 - Gaining ethical approval; Step 3 - Conducting the interview; Step 4 - Transcribing responses; Step 5 - Analyzing data.

Question 8: Explain why sociologists might choose to use semi-structured interviews instead of fully structured ones.

Answer: Semi-structured interviews allow for flexibility to explore interesting responses in more depth, providing richer data while still maintaining some consistency across interviews.

Question 9: Identify one ethical consideration that must be taken into account when interviewing vulnerable groups, such as children or individuals with mental health issues.

Answer: Researchers must ensure informed consent is obtained, and they should be sensitive to participants' emotional and psychological well-being, providing support if needed.

Question 10: Sketch a flowchart showing the steps a sociologist would take to prepare for conducting interviews.

Answer: A flowchart including steps: Define research aims → Develop interview questions → Obtain ethical approval → Select participants → Arrange interview settings → Prepare recording equipment.