I had three interviews yesterday!
I learned a few very important things….
First, after the first interview, I realized that two of my questions could be interpreted in two different ways…for example, I asked about variability being the norm in today’s classrooms– the first administrator answer was based on teacher varaibility and teaching methods–I was interested in student variability. I realized that adding or deleting one word can solicit a more targeted answer. I also learned that some interviewees have their own agenda! One adminstrator wanted to share thoughts on the county PD and went off on a tagent that did not really relate to my question…I think he wanted the school rep that was with me to hear what he had to say. The same administrator had many questions about IRB, which I will share in person…. I also learned that interviewing is a looong process! Traveling to the sites, waiting for busy school leaders, then writing interview notes and beginning to transcribe…it is time consuming. However, I truly feel that this is the best way to get to the “why” of your questions. Finallly, I learned that random selection is not always the best. I had on interviewee who really did not have a firm grasp on the subject.
The greatest challenge for me was only asking questions and not providing responses. Two of my interviewees asked me direct questions…I had steer them back to the interview, but after turning off the recorder, I addressed their questions. It is also tough not to correct or clarify.
I am looking forward the next set of interviews. I enjoy meeting new people who are excited about their schools, and clearly passionate and energetic! Most of my interviewees fit this description and I feel fortunate to have had the chance to learn from their perspective!
Two questions: I know the IRB forms need to be kept in your office, but how about the recordings? I told them I would be deleting after I transcribe….do you keep the transcriptions?
