The phases in an information or probing interview underscore the parallels
between the core information competencies (Work Group on Information Competence,
1997a) and the interview process (Stewart & Cash, 1997). I will develop
a module for each phase of the information/probing interview process with
relevant activities, suggested assignments, and other learning tools. In
addition, as I noted in the objectives, I will incorporate what others have
previously developed in their information competence projects.
Phase/Module (1). Determining the purpose. The interviewer needs
to identify why s/he is conducting the interview(s) and what form the final
product will take. Because the interview is a cooperative interaction, the
student must phrase the purpose such that it is understandable to others.
Core Information Competency (1). Formulate
and state a research question, problem or issue not only within the conceptual
framework of a discipline, but also in a manner in which others can readily
understand and cooperatively engage in the search.
Phase/Module (2).
Researching the topic. Interviewers must conduct background research
on the topic to develop an interview guide. Questions, the heart of an interview,
are based on the interviewer's previous research. Demonstrating a basic
understanding of the topic can motivate the interviewee to participate.
Core Information Competency (2). Determine
the information requirements for a research question, problem or issue
in order to formulate a search strategy that will use a variety of resources.
Core Information Competency (3). Locate and
retrieve relevant information, in all its various formats, using, when
appropriate, technological tools.
Phase/Module (3).Selecting interviewees. After researching the topic, interviewers need to identify
who has the information they want, if interviewees are available, and how
willing and able interviewees are to provide information.
Core Information Competency (3). Locate and
retrieve relevant information, in all its various formats, using, when
appropriate, technological tools.
Phase/Module (4). Structuring the interview. Unstructured, impromptu probing interviews typically fall
far short of achieving their purpose. Interviewers need to develop an interview
guide for each interviewee, listing primary questions and possible probing
or secondary questions that are based on the interview purpose and previous
research conducted.
Core Information Competency (2). Determine
the information requirements for a research question, problem or issue
in order to formulate a search strategy that will use a variety of resources.
Core Information Competency (3). Locate and
retrieve relevant information, in all its various formats, using, when
appropriate, technological tools.
Core Information Competency (4). Organize information
in a manner that permits analysis, evaluation, synthesis and understanding.
Phase/Module (5). Conducting the interview. Flexibility is key to a successful interview. Interviewers
need to practice active listening, critical thinking, and effective notetaking
during the interview. In addition, Samovar and Mills (1998) stress the impact
of culture in interviewing, such as differences in how talk, silence, and
time are valued in different cultures. Barone and Switzer (1995) discuss
interviewers' ethical responsibilities, emphasizing "the need to make
ongoing moral judgments about information and how it obtained" (p.
161).
Core Information Competency (6). Understand
the ethical, legal and socio-political issues surrounding information.
Phase/Module (6). Preparing the story or report.
The interviewer must determine the most
effective form(s) for presenting the information, and what information to
include and what to edit out.
Core Information Competency (4). Organize information
in a manner that permits analysis, evaluation, synthesis and understanding.
Core Information Competency (5). Create and
communicate information effectively using various media.
Phase/Module (7). Presenting the story or report. After completing the report, the interviewer needs to
identify the most effective methods of presenting the information.
Core Information Competency (7). Understand
the techniques, points of view and practices employed in the presentation
of information from all sources.