viðtalsrannsóknum

Viðtalsrannsóknum, or interview research, is a qualitative research method used to gather in-depth information about individuals' experiences, perspectives, and opinions. This method relies on direct interaction between a researcher and participants, typically through spoken conversation. Interviews can be conducted in various formats, including structured, semi-structured, and unstructured, depending on the research objectives.

Structured interviews follow a predetermined set of questions asked in the same order to all participants. This approach ensures consistency and allows for easier comparison of responses. Semi-structured interviews provide a flexible framework, with a guide of core questions that can be adapted and expanded upon based on the flow of the conversation and participant responses. Unstructured interviews are the most flexible, with minimal pre-planning and open-ended questions, allowing participants to lead the discussion and explore topics in detail.

The primary goal of viðtalsrannsóknum is to gain a rich understanding of complex social phenomena from the viewpoint of those experiencing them. Researchers often use interviews to explore sensitive topics, delve into personal histories, or understand intricate decision-making processes. The data collected from interviews typically consists of transcripts of the conversations, which are then analyzed thematically to identify patterns, meanings, and insights. This method is valuable in fields such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, and marketing.