Interview as a method to collect linguistic data Cover Image

Intervjuu keeleandmete kogumise meetodina
Interview as a method to collect linguistic data

Author(s): Kristiina Praakli
Subject(s): Language and Literature Studies
Published by: Eesti Rakenduslingvistika Ühing (ERÜ)
Keywords: oral language; language data; language behaviour; sociolinguistics; empirical material; Estonian

Summary/Abstract: The article expands upon applying the method of interviewing in collecting language data. The article distinguishes between several types of linguistic data, describes the collecting of language material as a process and various factors inß uencing that process. The article describes different aspects of collecting material by way of interviews, revealing some contrary aspects of the interview as a method. On the one hand the interviewing process is systematic, flexible, and as a method, it can be applied quite easily, permitting the investigator to reach its purpose quickly; on the other hand there is no guarantee for a perfectly planned and structured interview to meet its purpose if the interviewer does not take into consideration the possible side-effects, for example the observer’s paradox, mutual inß uence, (sub)conscious changes in the language behaviour, which appear in the oral language use of the speaker. Whatever the material resulting from an interview it takes shape as a result of collaboration between two parties, which, in turn, is coordinated by the situation of the conversation and its aspects.

  • Issue Year: 2009
  • Issue No: 5
  • Page Range: 209-223
  • Page Count: 15
  • Language: Estonian