Pixilated partnerships, overcoming obstacles in qualitative interviews via Skype: a research note

This research note discusses the effectiveness of using video internet technologies, like Skype, for qualitative interviews. Skype may present some challenges for interviewing, including dropped calls and pauses, inaudible segments, inability to read body language and nonverbal cues, and loss of intimacy compared to traditional in-person interviews. Based on reflections from 45 university student researchers, the following short paper details how to overcome such obstacles and to create a successful research partnership between the researcher and participant. Strategies include confirming a stable internet connection, finding a quiet room without distractions, slowing down and clarifying talk, being open to repeating answers and questions, and paying close attention to facial expressions.