Course Outline

Module 1: Interview Foundations

Interviews are traditionally framed as a data collection method—something one does to collect data aligned with key questions. A more expansive view positions interviews as a tool that can be used throughout the life cycle of an evaluation: from helping to define the purpose of an evaluation to presentation of findings with an eye toward use, and anywhere in between. In this module, you will reflect on and share your interview experiences, become aware of the use and value of interviews at different parts in the evaluation process, and learn interview fundamentals. In Module 1, you will:

• Share successful interview experiences and identify themes on what makes excellent interviews.
• Learn and be able to articulate the value of interviews at different parts in the evaluation process.
• Describe interview foundations, including relevant research.

Module 2: Setting Yourself Up for Success—Interview Questions, Guides, and Requests

Evaluation experts and researchers have identified several planning elements and principles that can lead to a more successful interview experience. These include being able to create good interview questions aligned with your purpose, the best ways to structure interview guides, and the best approaches to interacting with individuals you would like to interview. Through a mix of small group work and hands-on activities, in Module 2, you will:

• Create and evaluate different types of questions using interview principles.
• Construct, refine, and use good interview guides.
• Understand best practice with regards to interview requests and be able to put this knowledge to use.
• Become aware of and able to address common interview challenges that come up during the interview planning process.

Module 3: Interview Competencies and the Secrets to Conducting Good Interviews

Interviewers need to bring several competencies to the room, and these competencies can be learned and refined. Through a mix of video case studies, small group work ,and hands-on activities, in Module 3, you will:

• Be aware of the competencies that interviewers need to bring to the room.
• Evaluate and practice putting these competencies to use.
• Become aware of different options for dealing with difficult interview situations, and practice addressing them.

Module 4: Recording, Processing, and Visualizing Interview Data

There is both a science and art to recording, processing, and visualizing interview data. There are also several practical aspects that need to be considered during this phase of the interview process. Through a mix of small group work and hands-on activities, in Module 4, you will:

• Become aware of different options for recording interview data, including pros and cons of each approach, so you can make informed decisions.
• Understand different options for processing interview data, what qualitative analysis software is out there, including low and no-cost options, to help you with analysis.
• Practice processing interview data.