The Research Interview: Reflective Practice and Reflexivity in Research Processes

Research and Qualitative Interviews brings into focus the decisions that the interviewer faces by taking a data-led approach in order to open up choices and decisions in the process of planning for, managing, analysing and representing interviews. The chapters concentrate on the real-time, moment-by-moment nature of interview management and interaction. A key feature of the book is the inclusion of reflexive vignettes that foreground the voices and experience of qualitative researchers (both novices and more expert practitioners). The vignettes demonstrate the importance of reflecting on and learning from interactional experience. In addition, the book provides an overview of different types of interviews, commenting on the orientation and make-up of each type. Overall, this book encourages reflective thinking about the use of research interviews. It distinguishes between reflection, reflective practice and reflexivity. All the chapters focus on recurring choices, dilemmas and puzzles; offering advice in opening out and engaging with these aspects of the research interview.

Table of Contents:
Acknowledgements Introduction 1. Interviews as Reflective Practice 2. Qualitative Interviews Overview 3. Interview Context 4. Research Interviews; modes and types 5. Managing Interview Interaction 6. Dilemmas and Parameters 7. Beyond the individual 8. Transcripts and Analysis 9. Representation 10. Training and Development Appendices References Index

About the Author :
Steve Mann is Associate Professor at the Centre for Applied Linguistics, University of Warwick, UK. He previously lectured at both Aston University and University of Birmingham. Steve supervises a research group of PhD students who are investigating teacher education and development. He contributes sessions on research interviewing for the Doctorate Training Centre at the University of Warwick.

Review :
“Throughout the book, the reader is given though-provoking tasks. … Reading The Research Interview felt more like completing a course, than reading a textbook. … It certainly has a role in doctoral and postgraduate research training for qualitative researchers, either for self-directed learning or as a resource for trainers. So too might it be a useful purchase for a qualitative research group, helping researchers keep their interviewing skills sharp.” (Catherine Aicken, Qualitative Methods in Psychology, (23), 2018) “It should be introduced into any course on qualitative research as a key stimulus text for discussing these concepts, or given to any research student writing on these topics in their methodology. … Mann has managed to pack an enormous wealth of interviewing knowledge and experience into a handy, well-written volume which is both a pleasure to read and an education in itself.” (Victoria Elliott, International Journal of Research & Method in Education, Vol. 41 (2), January, 2018)