What are the challenges encountered in data collection as it applies to research? What are the types of interview technique when interviewing participants? List your preferences and tell us why?

Data collection is a challenging process for research. The following are some of the most common challenges:

1. Selection bias: Results may be biased if the sample selected isn’t representative of those being studied.
2. Bias due to non-participation: Individuals may not participate in a study, resulting in distorted data.
3. Bias of social desirability: The participant may answer questions that they feel are more desirable to the public than what is true.
4. Problems with data quality: Inadequate or inaccurate data may result from flawed instruments used to collect the information.
5. Ethics: The methods of data collection may cause ethical concern, including invasion of privacy and coercion.

There are many interview techniques to choose from when interviewing research participants. There are structured, unstructured and semi-structured interview techniques.

In structured interviews, a set of predetermined questions is asked in a certain order. The questions are also the same for each participant. Semi-structured questions are also pre-determined, but there is some flexibility for the interviewer. They can ask further questions or provide clarifications. Unstructured interviewing is more flexible and conversational, and the interviewer allows the participant to take the lead.

I prefer the semi-structured technique. It is my belief that having predetermined questions allows the interviewer to ask more detailed or clarifying questions, while still ensuring that the information needed for the job has been gathered. This method also includes some elements of conversation and relationship-building, which may help to put participants at their ease and encourage them to be more honest.