Accessing the American Dream in Boston: Field Research

Things to Consider About Field Research

When planning questions to ask yourself:

• What will you learn from the meeting or person interviewed that adds to your academic research?
  •  Do you need to interview the mayor on affordable housing if his views are published widely in newspapers?
• Are you prepared?
  • ​Have you thoroughly researched the topic?
  • Write your interview questions and test them out with a friend or family member ahead of time.
  • Write questions for the community meeting, and be prepared to listen for the answers. You may need to raise any questions that are not addressed. 
  • Take photo/interview release form(s) with you.

When attending a community meeting or giving an interview

• Bring a notebook to take notes because audio recording is not always permitted.
• Plan to take photos or video. Borrow a camera from library or take your phone.
• Consent is required when recording people and taking pictures.  Children (including teens 17 years and younger) may never be photographed or recorded without written parental consent. 

Types of Interviewing 

• Face to Face Interviews

• Phone Interviews (Protect your privacy - Set up Google Voice)

TIPS

• Introduce yourself. Make eye contact. Listen. 

• You need permission to take and use photos and record an interview. Interview and Photo Release Form. 

• Sample email asking for an interview.