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Web Survey Bibliography

Title Qualitative research online: Self-reported pros and cons of being chat-interviewed online with web cameras
Year 2006
Access date 20.09.2006
Abstract OBJECTIVES We conducted in-depth chat interviews online using web-cameras to study barriers to safe sex among Dutch youth. We wanted to know how participants experienced this method of research. METHODS Two male and two female interviewers conducted in-depth chat interviews with 101 male and 98 female aged 14-24. Visual contact via web-cameras was maintained throughout the interview between interviewer and interviewee. No audio contact was possible only communication through typing. The majority of participants communicated via their home computer. The end of each interview was dedicated to standardized questions regarding the research experience. RESULTS The Pros: According to participants, the relative anonymity online and the familiarity of being in their own environment made it easier to answer personal and intimate questions. Seeing the interviewer and the studio environment through our web-cameras reduced feelings of distrust participants usually had for ‘strangers’ online. In comparison to face-to-face interviews, participants found it easier to give honest answers concerning sexuality during online contact than in the presence of a ‘real’ interviewer. Time gaps between questions and answers that occur while chatting gave participants time to think, ask for clarifications, and calmly formulate their answers. “Typing things is easier than saying things”, commented one participant, and others commented that typed questions were easier to understand than questions presented orally. The Cons: Participants were concerned whether privacy and anonymity could be guaranteed online. Distrust was frequently noted: “are you really who you say you are?” Finally, parents, siblings or other factors in the interviewee’s environment have occasionally interfered with the interview. CONCLUSIONS According to interviewees, online in-depth interviews using webcameras can facilitate communication on sensitive issues such as sexuality. When issues of trust are properly addressed, the perceived advantages of online interviewing, for some topics, seem to surpass the disadvantages.
Access/Direct link Conference homepage (abstract)
Year of publication2006
Bibliographic typeConferences, workshops, tutorials, presentations
Full text availabilityNon-existant
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Web survey bibliography (4086)

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