Formal Interviews (AQA A Level Sociology): Revision Note
Exam code: 7192
Structured & semi-structured interviews
Interviews are carried out face-to-face, remotely or via telephone
There are different types of interviews:
structured
semi-structured
unstructured
group interviews
Structured interviews
Structured (or formal) interviews involve the researcher asking each participant the same set of pre-written questions, in the same order, using a consistent tone and delivery
Key features include:
standardised format ensures uniformity across all interviews
responses are usually closed-ended
the interviewer does not deviate or ask follow-up questions
collection of quantitative data
Structured interviews are favoured by positivist sociologists
Semi-structured interviews
Semi-structured interviews combine features of both structured and unstructured interviews
They include set questions but also allow the interviewer to probe further based on the participant’s responses
Key features include:
mix of closed and open-ended questions
interviewer has flexibility to explore interesting or unexpected points
produces a mix of quantitative and qualitative data
Evaluation of structured and semi-structured interviews
Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|
Practical – structured interviews are easy to conduct, quick to record, and interviewers can ensure all questions are completed. | Inflexibility – fixed questions mean the interviewer cannot probe or ask follow-up questions. Respondents can't express their views in their own words. |
High response rate – especially face-to-face, where trained interviewers can build trust. | Social desirability bias – face-to-face format may lead respondents to give answers they think are acceptable, reducing validity. |
Reliable – standardised questions mean interviews can be repeated by other researchers to check for consistency over time. | Interviewer effect – characteristics like the interviewer’s age, gender, or ethnicity may influence responses. |
Produces quantitative data – closed questions can be easily coded and analysed for patterns and correlations. | Imposition problem – researchers may impose their own assumptions through limited answer options. |
Objective and scientific – structured format reduces researcher bias and supports positivist research aims. | Feminist criticism – some argue that structured interviews reinforce unequal power dynamics and discourage openness. |
Semi-structured interviews offer flexibility – allowing deeper exploration of personal experiences and meanings. | Less reliable – responses vary between participants, making semi-structured interviews harder to replicate. |
Interviewers can clarify misunderstandings – this improves accuracy compared to self-completion questionnaires. | More expensive than questionnaires – require trained interviewers and more time to conduct. |
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