In this lesson, you will compare and contrast interview questions to uncover a concept indispensable for completing successful research interviews. Just scroll through the page and follow the prompts. When you encounter a PAUSE, stop and take a few moments to answer the reflection question before scrolling further.

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pause

Take a few moments to consider the structure and content of the questions above. Write down the similarities and differences you notice.

PAUSE

The first three questions differ from the last. Can you spot the concept that explains the difference? Using the list of similarities and differences you wrote above, brainstorm some ideas about what kinds of concept categories the "yes" questions and the "no" question might belong.

PAUSE

Now that you've read the question/answer pairs, what changes might you make to the concept list you formulated above? Before you scroll down to uncover the mystery concept, can you think of any other concepts that might be related?

MYSTERY CONCEPT UNCOVERED!

PAUSE

Take a look at the examples below and write two open-ended questions that you think might encourage a respondent to share a story about a vacation they enjoyed.

Now that you've written a couple open-ended questions. Try the practice exercise next.

PRACTICE

Rewrite the three CLOSED questions below and turn them into OPEN-ENDED questions. When you are finished, scroll down to compare your updated questions with the samples provided.

1. Do you currently work at a job for pay?

2. What industry do you work in?

3. What kind of work do you do?

SAMPLE questionS REWRITten

1. Please tell me about your work.

2. Describe the industry you currently work in.

3. Tell about a typical day where you work.

How did you do? Remember to test your interview questions with a friend or family member before heading out into the field to conduct a formal interview.

Congratulations on completing the mystery concept lesson on open-ended and closed interview questions. Good luck on your next interview!

Reference: Changing Minds. (n.d.) Open and Closed Questions. http://changingminds.org/techniques/questioning/open_closed_questions.htm

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