Qualitative methods: Interviews, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course introduces methodological tools for conducting, documenting and using interviews for qualitative research. Focusing on ethnographic research, the course presents different forms of interviews and analytical concepts and perspectives. The course provides practical and theoretical training to conduct and analyze interviews. The importance of ethics and reflexivity are central themes throughout the course. 

Module 1: The interview as a method (3 ects) 
Intervju som metod 

The first module introduces the interview as a research method. Focus is on different forms of interviewing and what type of knowledge can be obtained through such methods. Ethics and reflexivity are introduced and discussed.  

Module 2: Conducting and analyzing interviews (4,5 ects) 
Genomföra och analysera intervjuer 

In the second part of the course, students will apply the knowledge from the first module. This implies conducting different forms of interviews including transcription and analysis. 

Expected learning outcomes

Module 1: The interview as a method (3 ects) 

After completing Module 1 the student should be able to: 

Knowledge and understanding 

• account for central perspectives and concepts relevant for studies interview studies, 
• account for different forms of interview methods and for the type of knowledge these generate,  
• account for ethical aspects relating to the interview method. 

Judgment and approach 

• discuss and reflect on the significance of reflexivity and ethical considerations when using interviews in research. 

 
Module 2: Conducting and analyzing interviews (4,5 ects) 

After completing Module 2 the student should be able to: 

 Skills and abilities 

• select an approptiate interview method in relation to a chosen field of study, 
• conduct ethnographic interviews,  
• transcribe, analyze and interpret interview material. 

Judgment and approach 

• discuss and problematize the knowledge obtained through the collected interview material, 
• present a reflexive and ethical discussion about the chosen methodology and the conduction of the own study. 

Required Knowledge

Form of instruction

Teaching consists of lectures, seminars, group exercises, and individual work. When attendance is compulsory it is specifically stated in the schedule. In case of absence on a compulsory occasion, supplementary information is provided by the teacher. 

 
For those who are registered for a course and have a disability, there are resources for special support. For more information, contact the Student Center. 

Examination modes

Module 1: The interview as a method (3 ects) 

The module is examined through seminars and an individual assignment. Seminars are graded with Pass (Godkänd) or Fail (Underkänd). Individual assignment is graded with Pass with distinction (Väl godkänd), Pass (Godkänd) or Fail (Underkänd). To achieve Pass (G) for the whole module, all seminars and the individual assignment must have received the grade G. To receive Pass with distinction (VG) for a module, all seminars must have been received the grade G, and the individual assignment must have received the grade VG. 

Module 2: Conducting and analyzing interviews (4,5 ects) 

The module is examined through practical assignments presented and discussed at seminars/workshops and in an individual essay. Seminars are graded  with Pass (Godkänd) or Fail (Underkänd). The individual essay is graded with Pass with distinction (Väl godkänd), Pass (Godkänd) or Fail (Underkänd). To achieve Pass (G) on the whole module all assignments must have received the grade G. To receive Pass with distinction (VG) for a module, all seminars/workshops must have received the grade G, and the individual essay must have received the grade VG. 

 
For each examining part of the course there is a regular examination given with a second reexamination within two months after the regular examination. For examinations performed in May and June, the first reexamination are offered within three months of the regular examination. In addition to this, a third reexamination is given within a year after the end of the course. Those who have passed the test may not undergo a re-test for higher grades. 
 
A student who does not fully meet the objectives of an examination but is close to the limit for a passing grade can, after a decision by the examiner, be given the opportunity to supplement in order to achieve the examination assignment's criteria for a passing grade. Completion of the examination must be adapted individually based on the goal(s) not achieved by the student and must take place within two weeks after the students have been notified of the examination results, but before the next examination opportunity. It is only permitted to supplement an unsuccessful result to pass, supplementation for higher grades is not permitted.  

 
The examiner can decide on deviations from the syllabus' examination form. Individual adaptation of the examination form must be considered based on the student's needs. The examination form is adapted within the framework of the syllabus' expected study results. Students who need an adapted examination must request adaptation from the department responsible for the course no later than 10 days before the examination. The examiner decides on an adapted examination which is then communicated to the student. 

 
To pass the course, all exams and compulsory parts must be passed. The grade constitutes a summary assessment of the results in the various parts of the examination and is only set when all compulsory parts have been approved. To obtain the grade Pass with distinction on the entire course, the student must have received this grade on module 2. 

 
Students who are registered for a course and have registered credits in Ladok on the course have the right to be examined on the course and its parts up to two years after the first registration date. A student who, without a passing grade, has passed an ordinary examination and a re-examination for the course, has the right to have another examiner appointed at the next re-examination, unless there are special reasons to the contrary. Requests for a change of examiner are made to the director of studies at the Department of Culture and Media Studies. 

Transfer of credits

Information about credit transfer of previous courses can be found on Umeå University's student web.  

Other regulations

In a degree, this course may not be included together with another course with similar content, e.g. 1ET059. In case of doubt, the student should consult the Director of Studies at the Department of Cultural and Media Studies