Asking Questions
According to Liamputtong (46), “there are two broad ways to of asking questions: thematically to produce knowledge and dynamically to enhance the interpersonal relationship in the interview. A good question should be composed of both types of questions.” Through thematic questions, the researcher addresses the “what” of the interview. Dynamic questions, on the other hand, get at the “how” of the interview and, ideally, contribute to encouraging good interaction, conversation flow, and participant motivation to share.
General tips for writing questions
- Write questions that are short and easy to understand.
- Avoid using jargon in wording questions.
- Ask open-ended questions. Open-ended questions encourage open dialogue and a rich discussion.
- Avoid dichotomous questions. A dichotomous question has only 2 possible answers, such as yes or no.
- Avoid leading questions. A leading question forces a participant to respond in a certain way or with a specific answer.
Types of questions
Type of Question:
Introductory/opening question: a broad, general question which sets the stage for the interview; used to allow participants to talk at length and choose where they want to start in the discussion
Example:
To begin, I would like you to introduce yourself and tell me why did you decide to get involved with “The Better Bottle” program?
Type of Question:
Structuring question: purpose is to move on to next question/topic; requires transition
Example:
Now that we have talked about the activities you liked, let’s talk about the activities you didn’t participate in. Why didn’t you choose to participate in some of the activities offered?
Type of Question:
Interpreting question: rephrase/summarize an answer in order to clarify participant’s response
Example:
If I could summarize, you said that finding childcare coverage and timing of the activities were the two more significant issues that kept you from participating in “The Better Bottle” program offerings?
Type of Question:
Follow-up question: to get participants to elaborate on an answer given
Example:
Could you tell me a little bit more about why you liked the ‘Healthy Mom, Healthy Baby’ classes?
Type of Question:
Probing question: to clarify understanding of an answer
Example:
In terms of the handouts and pamphlets from the ‘Healthy Mom, Healthy Baby’ class, were those materials helpful or useful?