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fieldwork focus

Interviews

Collecting a variety of reliable and relevant data is very important for successful GCSE fieldwork. This Fieldwork Focus covers some basic considerations for conducting interviews.

Diversification schemes, such as this alpacca farm in the Peak District, have been introduced in many farms

Interviews are a most effective data collection technique for obtaining views and opinions held by people. They can sometimes be used to follow up responses obtained in a questionnaire. An interview provides the opportunity for an in-depth conversation with a particular person, where you can obtain detailed information, usually in the form of extended answers. Interviews are also invaluable for getting an expert opinion, or providing background to a decision (such as planning approval for a new supermarket).

It is the usual convention to secure formal consent from someone before conducting an interview with them. This could be by letter, e-mail, telephone or in person, but be sure to check with your teacher first, as you will be representing the school. Consent involves obtaining permission from a person for you to interview them, and agreeing a convenient time, date and location for the interview to take place. See Figure 1 for an example of a consent form.

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