Institution: see Organisers & Acknowledgements

Programme of study: International Research Workshop

Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Betina Hollstein (University of Hamburg)

Date: Monday, 29/09/14 – Wednesday, 01/10/14 from 09.00-12.30 h

Max. number of participants: 20

Credit Points: 5 CP for participating in the whole IRWS

Language of instruction: English

Contents:

Expert interviews are often used in empirical social research. Sometimes they are part of the preparatory stage of a study. Sometimes expert interviews are the main data source. The course will focus on theory and practice of expert interviews, i.e. methodological foundations and practical considerations when conducting expert interviews.

The course starts out with a brief overview on the specific characteristics of qualitative data and methods. We will discuss problems and challenges associated with qualitative interviewing and different ways to deal with these challenges. We will address different types of expert interviews (guided interviews, narrative interview), by highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each approach and discussing the crucial steps when preparing and conducting expert interviews. Finally, we will discuss how to get access to the field, ways of data management and different strategies for data analysis.

Required basic knowledge: Basic knowledge and skills in social research methods and methodology (Bachelor degree in a Social Science discipline).

You have to register for the 8th International Research Workshop to participate in this course.