Asking chatgpt to propose a narrative interview linked to hermeneutics: an example for Housing Studies students

Asking chatgpt to propose a narrative interview linked to hermeneutics: an example for Housing Studies students.

The following is an account of my dialogue with chatgpt (via poe.com) about using narrative interview linked to hermeneutics to study perceptions of quality of residential life.

My question 1: "I am a part-time Housing Studies student, currently learning the subject of Research Methods. Via my parents, I am acquainted with a few elderly widows in their 70s living in Sheung Shui. They agree to be interviewed by me in North District Park, Sheung Shui. I plan to conduct a narrative interview with them about their quality of residential life over the years in Sheung Shui. Subsequently, I will try to analyze the interview transcripts using methods based on hermeneutics. My question 1 is: what are the main ideas underlying narrative interview?"

The reply from chatgpt: "Narrative interviews are a qualitative research method focused on understanding individuals' experiences through their stories. Here are the main ideas underlying narrative interviews:

1. Storytelling as a Means of Understanding

Narrative interviews emphasize the importance of personal stories. Participants share their experiences, which researchers analyze to gain insights into their lives.

2. Subjectivity and Individual Experience

Each participant's narrative is unique and reflects their personal perspective. This subjectivity is valued as it reveals how individuals interpret their experiences.

3. Contextualization

The context in which stories are told is crucial. Researchers consider the social, cultural, and historical background that shapes the narratives.

4. Co-construction of Meaning

The interview process is interactive. The researcher and participant co-create the narrative, allowing for deeper exploration and clarification of experiences.

5. Temporal Dimension

Narratives often encompass both past and present experiences, illustrating how individuals perceive changes over time.

6. Themes and Patterns

Researchers look for recurring themes and patterns within the narratives, which can provide insights into broader social issues and personal meanings.

7. Hermeneutic Interpretation

Analyzing the narratives involves hermeneutics, focusing on understanding the meaning of the stories in their context, considering both explicit and implicit messages.

8. Empowerment and Voice

Narrative interviews empower participants by giving them a voice and the opportunity to express their realities, often leading to personal reflection and validation.

9. Ethical Considerations

Researchers must be sensitive to the personal nature of the stories shared, ensuring confidentiality and ethical treatment of participants' narratives.

These elements come together to provide a rich understanding of individuals' lived experiences, particularly in relation to their quality of life and social contexts."

My question 2 is: "Tks. My question is what are the main ideas underlying hermeneutics as a research methodology?"

The reply from chatgpt: "Hermeneutics is a research methodology focused on interpretation, particularly of texts and meaning-making. Here are the main ideas underlying hermeneutics:

1. Interpretation of Meaning

Hermeneutics emphasizes understanding the meaning behind texts, actions, and events. It seeks to uncover deeper significance rather than just surface-level information.

2. Historical and Cultural Context

The interpretation of meaning is influenced by the historical and cultural context in which a text or narrative exists. Understanding this context is crucial for accurate interpretation.

3. Dialogue and Interaction

Hermeneutics involves a dialectical process where the researcher engages with the text and the subject. This interaction helps to uncover layers of meaning and facilitates a deeper understanding.

4. Prejudices and Perspectives

Researchers bring their own biases and preconceptions (prejudices) to the interpretation process. Recognizing and reflecting on these biases is essential for a more objective understanding.

5. Holistic Understanding

Hermeneutics advocates for a holistic approach, considering the whole context of a text or narrative rather than isolating parts. This approach helps to grasp the interconnectedness of meanings.

6. Circularity of Understanding (Hermeneutic Circle)

The hermeneutic circle refers to the idea that understanding involves moving between the whole and its parts. One must understand individual elements to grasp the overall meaning and vice versa.

7. Subjectivity and Reflexivity

Hermeneutics acknowledges the subjective nature of interpretation. Researchers must be reflexive, aware of how their perspectives shape their understanding of the text.

8. Narrative and Language

Language plays a crucial role in hermeneutics. The way narratives are constructed and expressed influences how meanings are conveyed and understood.

9. Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are important in hermeneutic research, particularly in respecting the voices and experiences of participants while interpreting their narratives.

10. Evolution of Understanding

Understanding is not static; it evolves over time. Hermeneutics recognizes that interpretations can change with new insights, contexts, and experiences.

These ideas collectively contribute to a nuanced and deep understanding of human experiences, making hermeneutics a valuable methodology in qualitative research."

My question 3 is: "Tks. My question 3 is then: what would a narrative interview design linked to hermeneutics be like when employed to interview elderly widows in Sheung Shui to learn their perceived quality of residential life over the years? Specifically, what are the questions should I ask the interviewees and in what order to ask them?"

The reply from chatgpt: "Designing a narrative interview linked to hermeneutics involves crafting questions that encourage participants to share their stories and experiences in depth. Here’s a suggested framework and order for your interview questions when interviewing elderly widows in Sheung Shui about their perceived quality of residential life:

Introduction

Warm-up and Context Setting

"Thank you for meeting with me today. Can you tell me a little about yourself and your background?"

Life History and Context

Early Life and Move to Sheung Shui

"Can you share some memories from your early life? What brought you to Sheung Shui?"

Initial Impressions

"What were your first impressions of living in Sheung Shui? How did you feel about your new home?"

Residential Life Experience

Daily Life and Routine

"Can you describe a typical day in your life here? What activities do you enjoy?"

Community and Social Connections

"How would you describe your relationships with neighbors and the community? Are there any particular friendships or connections that stand out?"

Changes Over Time

"How has your experience of living in Sheung Shui changed over the years? What factors contributed to these changes?"

Quality of Life Reflection

Perceived Quality of Life

"How would you rate your overall quality of life here? What aspects contribute to this perception?"

Challenges Faced

"What challenges have you encountered in your residential life? How have these challenges affected your well-being?"

Support Systems

"What support systems are in place for you, either from family, friends, or the community? How have these influenced your experience?"

Personal Reflections

Significant Memories

"Can you share a memorable experience that encapsulates your life in Sheung Shui? Why does this memory stand out to you?"

Lessons Learned

"What lessons have you learned from your experiences living here? How have they shaped your view on life?"

Closing

Final Thoughts

"Is there anything else you would like to share about your life in Sheung Shui that we haven't covered?"

Follow-up Questions

Clarifying and Probing

Throughout the interview, be prepared to ask follow-up questions based on their responses, such as:

"Can you tell me more about that?"

"How did that experience make you feel?"

Conclusion

Thank You and Reflection

"Thank you for sharing your stories with me. What do you hope future generations will understand about life in Sheung Shui?"

Additional Tips

Flexibility: While maintaining the order, be flexible and allow the conversation to flow naturally.

Active Listening: Pay attention to emotional cues and be responsive to the interviewee’s feelings.

This structured yet open interview design will help you gather rich narratives and facilitate a deeper understanding of the participants' perceived quality of life through a hermeneutic lens."

My question 4: "Are there any ethical issues I need to pay attention to for conducting this narrative interview research?"

The reply from chatgpt: "Yes, there are several ethical issues to consider when conducting narrative interviews, especially with vulnerable populations like elderly widows. Here are some key ethical considerations:

1. Informed Consent

Clear Communication: Ensure participants fully understand the purpose of the research, what participation entails, and how their data will be used.

Voluntary Participation: Emphasize that participation is voluntary and that they can withdraw at any time without consequences.

2. Confidentiality and Privacy

Data Protection: Safeguard participants' identities and personal information. Use pseudonyms or codes when analyzing and reporting data.

Secure Storage: Store interview recordings and transcripts securely to prevent unauthorized access.

3. Sensitivity to Vulnerability

Understanding Context: Be aware of the emotional and social challenges faced by elderly widows. Approach sensitive topics with care and empathy.

Support Availability: Consider providing information about support resources should any emotional distress arise during the interview.

4. Respect for Participants

Dignity and Autonomy: Treat participants with respect, valuing their stories and perspectives. Allow them to express themselves freely.

Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of cultural norms and values that may influence how participants communicate their experiences.

5. Reflexivity

Awareness of Bias: Reflect on your own biases and how they might affect the interview process and analysis. Be open to learning from participants.

6. Debriefing

Post-Interview Discussion: Offer participants a chance to discuss their feelings about the interview. This can help them process the experience and provide additional insights.

7. Publication and Dissemination

Anonymity in Reporting: When sharing findings, ensure that individual identities and sensitive information are not disclosed.

Participant Feedback: Consider sharing your findings with participants to validate their experiences and interpretations.

8. Power Dynamics

Equal Voice: Be conscious of the power dynamics between researcher and participant. Strive to create an egalitarian environment where participants feel empowered to share their stories.

9. Potential for Misinterpretation

Clarification During Interviews: Ask for clarification if you don’t understand something. Avoid making assumptions about their experiences.

10. Ethical Approval

Institutional Review Board (IRB): If applicable, seek ethical approval from an IRB or relevant ethics committee before conducting the research.

By addressing these ethical issues thoughtfully, you can foster a respectful and safe environment for your participants, ensuring that their voices are heard and valued in your research."

Reference: a collection of blog notes on using chatgpt for research purpose.