Qualitative Data Collection

Sample Solution

Interview Protocol: Exploring Everyday Experiences of Accessibility

1. Introduction:

This interview protocol outlines the procedures for conducting semi-structured interviews to explore individuals' lived experiences of accessibility in their daily lives.

2. Type of Interview:

Semi-structured interview: This approach combines predetermined questions with the flexibility to follow up on emerging themes and individual experiences. This allows for in-depth exploration while maintaining focus on the research topic (Braun & Clarke, 2013).

Rationale: A semi-structured format enables researchers to gather detailed and personalized narratives while maintaining some control over the direction of the conversation (Willig, 2017). This flexibility is crucial for capturing the nuances and complexities of individual experiences with accessibility.

3. Interview Setting and Duration:

Planned location: Interviews will be conducted in a private, comfortable setting chosen by the participant, such as their home, a public library, or a university office.

Estimated length: Each interview is expected to last between 45 and 60 minutes.

4. Recording and Transcription:

• Audio recording: The interview will be audio-recorded with the participant's informed consent. This allows for capturing the full richness of the conversation, including tone and nonverbal cues.
• Transcription: Recordings will be transcribed verbatim, capturing all verbal content. Nonverbal cues like pauses, sighs, or laughter will be noted in brackets to preserve important aspects of the participant's communication (Liamputtong & Ezzy, 2005).

Full Answer Section

5. Interview Guide:

The interview guide will consist of a combination of open-ended and probing questions, categorized into the following themes:

• Personal experiences: Participants will be asked to describe their daily routines and activities, highlighting any challenges or barriers they encounter related to accessibility.
• Perceptions of accessibility: Participants will be encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings about the overall accessibility of their environment, including physical spaces, transportation, and services.
• Coping strategies: Participants will be asked to describe how they navigate and overcome accessibility challenges in their daily lives.
• Recommendations for improvement: Participants will be invited to share suggestions on how to improve accessibility in their communities.

6. Follow-up:

Thank-you notes will be sent to participants after the interview, expressing appreciation for their time and contribution to the research.

References:

• Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2013). Successful qualitative research: A practical guide for beginners. SAGE Publications Ltd.
• Liamputtong, P., & Ezzy, D. (2005). Qualitative research methods (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.
• Willig, C. (2017). The SAGE handbook of qualitative research methods in psychology. SAGE Publications Ltd.