Mark Bryan E.

Carlos Engineering Data Analysis

BSME-2B Bryan Dominic Padua

Types of Interview

1. Structured Interviews
Structured interviews are standardized and follow a fixed format. Therefore, these interviews
have a pre-determined set of questions. All the participants are asked the same set of questions
in the same order. Therefore, this type of interview facilitates standardization and allows easy
comparison and quantitative analysis of responses. As a result, structured interviews are used
in surveys or studies which aims for a high level of standardization and comparability.

2. Semi-structured Interviews
Semi-structured interviews offer a flexible framework by combining pre-determined questions.
So, this allows follow-up questions and open-ended discussions. Researchers have a list of
core questions but can adapt the interview depending on the participant’s responses.
Consequently, this allows for in-depth exploration while maintaining some level of consistency
across interviews. As a result, semi-structured interviews are widely used in qualitative
research, where content-rich data is desired.

3. Unstructured Interviews
Unstructured interviews provide the greatest flexibility and freedom in the interview process.
This type does not have a pre-determined set of questions. Thus, the conversation flows
naturally based on the participant’s responses and the researcher’s interests. Moreover, this
type of interview allows for open-ended exploration and encourages participants to share their
experiences, thoughts, and perspectives freely. Unstructured interviews are useful to explore
new or complex research topics, with limited preconceived questions.

4. Group Interviews (Focus Groups)

Group interviews involve multiple participants who engage in a facilitated discussion on a
specific topic. This format allows the interaction and exchange of ideas among participants,
generating a group dynamic. Therefore, group interviews are beneficial for capturing diverse
perspectives, and generating collective insights. They are often used in market research, social
sciences, or studies demanding shared experiences.

5. Narrative Interviews
Narrative interviews focus on eliciting participants’ personal stories, views, experiences, and
narratives. Researchers aim to look into the individual’s life journey. As a result, this type of
interview allows participants to construct and share their narratives, providing rich qualitative
data. Qualitative research, oral history, or studies focusing on individual experiences and
identities use narrative interviews.
6. Ethnographic Interviews
Ethnographic interviews are conducted within the context of ethnographic research, where
researchers immerse themselves in a specific social or cultural setting. These interviews aim to
understand participants’ experiences, beliefs, and practices within their cultural context, thereby
understanding diversity in different ethnic groups. Furthermore, ethnographic interviews involve
building rapport, observing the participants’ daily lives, and engaging in conversations that
capture the nuances of the culture under study.