A nurse researcher is trying to decide on the best method of data collection in a study. What is the advantage of an interview over a questionnaire as a method of data collection in a study?

Question

1. There is less bias.
2. In-depth responses can be obtained.
3. They are less time consuming.
4. Response rate is low.

Answer 1

2
Rationale 1: Less bias would be indicated by the content of a data collection instrument, not the type of instrument. Interviews are more time consuming to conduct than a questionnaire; a questionnaire may be more time consuming to construct than an interview. Response rate for an interview is usually higher than the return rate for questionnaires.
Rationale 2: In-depth responses from each subject are one major advantage of an interview.
Rationale 3: Interviews are more time consuming to conduct than a questionnaire; a questionnaire may be more time consuming to construct than an interview.
Rationale 4: Response rate for an interview is usually higher than the return rate for questionnaires.