What are the challenges encountered in data collection as it applies to research? What are the types of interview technique when interviewing participants? List your preferences and tell us why?

There are several challenges encountered in data collection as it applies to research. Some of the challenges include:

1. Selection bias: The sample chosen may not be representative of the population being studied, leading to biased results.
2. Non-response bias: Some individuals may refuse to participate in the study, leading to a biased sample.
3. Social desirability bias: Participants may provide answers that they think are socially desirable or expected, rather than their true beliefs or behaviors.
4. Data quality issues: Data collection instruments may be flawed, leading to inaccurate or incomplete data.
5. Ethical concerns: Data collection methods may raise ethical concerns, such as invasion of privacy or coercion of participants.

When it comes to interviewing participants in research, there are several interview techniques that can be used. These include structured, semi-structured, and unstructured interviews.

Structured interviews involve asking a pre-determined set of questions in a specific order, and the questions are the same for all participants. Semi-structured interviews also have a set of pre-determined questions, but the interviewer has some flexibility to ask additional questions or clarify responses. Unstructured interviews are more conversational and flexible, with the interviewer allowing the participant to lead the discussion.

My personal preference is the semi-structured interview technique. I believe that having a set of pre-determined questions helps ensure that all relevant information is gathered, but the interviewer also has the flexibility to probe further or clarify responses. This technique also allows for some rapport-building and conversational elements, which can help put participants at ease and encourage more open and honest responses.