Toward a Framework for Debriefing the Transcriber of Interviews

• In Event: The Multifaceted Aspects of Conducting Educational Research: Applicability, Relevance, and Impact

Abstract

In most qualitative research studies involving the creation of interview transcriptions, researchers seldom demonstrate much reflexivity about the transcription process, rarely making mention of transcription processes as part of their reporting of data collection and analysis procedures beyond a simple statement that audio- or videotaped data were transcribed. Disturbingly, transcription as a research method has received scant attention in the qualitative research literature. Thus, the purpose of this article was to provide a framework for debriefing the transcriber. As part of this framework, we have designed questions for the researcher to ask the transcriber to address representation and legitimation and also to facilitate movement into a deeper investigation. Finally, we present two examples of published works wherein transcribers were debriefed.

Authors

• Rebecca K. Frels, Lamar University

• Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie, Sam Houston State University