research and evaluation interview questions

17 Evaluation Specialist Interview Questions and Answers

Learn what skills and qualities interviewers are looking for from an evaluation specialist, what questions you can expect, and how you should go about answering them.

Evaluation specialists play a vital role in the government and nonprofit sectors. They design and conduct evaluations of programs, policies, and projects to ensure that they are effective and efficient. Evaluation specialists also use their findings to make recommendations for improvement.

If you’re looking for an evaluation specialist job, you will likely need to go through an interview process. To increase your chances of being hired, you should prepare for the interview by familiarizing yourself with the types of questions that are typically asked.

In this guide, we will provide you with a list of evaluation specialist interview questions and answers.

Are you familiar with the concept of triangulation when conducting research?

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Triangulation is a research method that involves using multiple sources of information to support or refute an idea. Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have experience with the concept and how it applies to your work as an evaluation specialist. In your answer, try to explain what triangulation is and why it’s important in your field.

Example: “Triangulation is a valuable tool for conducting research because it helps ensure the validity of data. When I conduct research, I always use at least two different methods to collect data. For example, when I was working on my last project, I used both surveys and interviews to gather information about our target audience. This allowed me to get a more complete picture of their needs and preferences.”

This question can help the interviewer determine if you possess the necessary skills and abilities to succeed in this role. Your answer should include a list of qualities that are important for an evaluation specialist, along with examples of how you have demonstrated these qualities in your past work experience.

Example: “The most important quality for an evaluation specialist is attention to detail. This job requires me to review large amounts of data and ensure I am making accurate calculations. Another important quality is communication. In my previous roles, I’ve had to communicate with many different stakeholders about the progress of projects. I find it helpful to be able to clearly explain complex processes so everyone understands what’s happening.”

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you can apply the knowledge and skills you’ve gained from your previous experience. Use examples of how you would gather information about a program, analyze it and use the results to develop a plan for implementation.

Example: “I would first identify the stakeholders involved in the program and their goals. I would then conduct interviews with each stakeholder to learn more about their needs and expectations for the program. Next, I would create surveys to assess the current state of the program and its processes. After analyzing the data from these assessments, I would determine what changes need to be made to improve the program. Finally, I would develop a plan for implementing those changes.”

Interviewers may ask this question to understand how you apply your research skills and knowledge to the job. They want to know that you can use your expertise to make decisions about which methods are best for a project. Use examples from past experience to explain what factors you consider when choosing research methods.

Example: “I first look at the objectives of the study, including who will be using the results and what information they need. Then I consider the resources available to me, such as time constraints and budget limitations. Finally, I think about the researcher’s qualifications and decide on the most appropriate method based on these considerations.”

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your problem-solving skills and how you apply them in the workplace. Use examples from previous jobs that show your ability to identify problems, analyze data and develop solutions.

Example: “At my last job, I noticed a discrepancy between two programs we used for our budgeting process. One program was outdated, so it didn’t include some of the new expenses we had incurred over the past year. The other program was accurate but couldn’t be updated with the information from the first program. To solve this issue, I worked with my team to create a third program that could combine the information from both existing programs. This allowed us to accurately calculate our budget for the upcoming fiscal year.”

This question is a great way to see how the interviewer will assess your success as an evaluation specialist. It’s important to show that you understand what methods are most effective and why they’re useful for assessing program success.

Example: “I would choose the method of collecting data from multiple sources, such as surveys, interviews and focus groups. This allows me to get different perspectives on the same program and compare them to each other. I find this method to be very beneficial because it gives me more information about the program than just one person’s opinion.”

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work with others. Your answer should show that you can identify the issue, communicate it to your colleagues and find a solution.

Example: “If I noticed a discrepancy between my data and the program administrators’ reports, I would first check if there was an error in my calculations or data collection methods. If not, I would discuss the discrepancy with my manager and other relevant stakeholders. Together, we would decide on the best way to resolve the issue. For example, we might need to reevaluate some of our previous data or adjust our current data based on new information.”

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your writing skills and determine whether you would be comfortable with the responsibilities of an evaluation specialist. Use your answer to highlight your writing abilities, especially if they are strong.

Example: “I have excellent writing skills that I developed in school. In my last role as a human resources manager, I wrote all of the company’s employee handbooks and policies. I also regularly communicated with employees through email and other digital channels, so I am comfortable communicating complex information in multiple formats.”

This question can help interviewers determine if you have experience working with confidential data and how you handled it. Use your answer to highlight your ability to keep information private while still performing your job duties.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience working with confidential data. In my last role as an evaluation specialist, I worked with sensitive client information every day. My team and I were responsible for keeping all of our clients’ personal information safe at all times. We had a strict protocol in place that we followed when handling any confidential documents or files. This included shredding any documents once they were no longer needed.”

This question can help interviewers understand your knowledge of research methods and how you apply them to projects. Use examples from past projects where control groups helped you achieve the goals of a project or study.

Example: “Control groups are important in research because they allow researchers to compare different variables that may affect the results of a study. For example, I once worked on a marketing campaign for a new product launch. We used a control group to test two different advertisements with similar demographics but different messaging. This allowed us to see which ad was more effective at reaching our target audience.”

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you can improve their outreach methods. They want to know that you have experience with different outreach methods and are willing to try new ones. In your answer, explain which outreach methods you’ve used in the past and why they worked well for you.

Example: “I think social media is a great way to reach out to people who might be interested in our organization’s mission. I would also like to start using more video content because it’s an engaging way to get information across. For example, we could create short videos about what we do as an organization and post them on YouTube or other platforms. We could even use live streaming apps like Periscope to show behind-the-scenes footage of our work.”

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience with specific software and how you apply it in your work. Use your answer to describe the type of statistical analysis software you’ve used, what you’ve done with it and why you prefer using that particular software over others.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with SPSS, which is a data mining tool I use to analyze large amounts of data for patterns and trends. In my last role as an evaluation specialist, I used SPSS to evaluate client satisfaction surveys and customer feedback forms to identify areas where we could improve our services or products. This helped me develop strategies to increase sales and reduce costs.”

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how they relate to the job. Before you go to an interview, make sure you read through the job description thoroughly. Review what skills, experience and education are required for the position. Use these requirements to explain why you’re a good fit for the role.

Example: “I have five years of experience as an evaluation specialist in human resources. During my time here, I’ve developed strong communication and problem-solving skills that help me work with employees who need assistance. My previous employer also hired me because of my ability to create innovative solutions to problems. I’m always looking for ways to improve processes and procedures.”

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience with different evaluation methods and how you apply them to your work. Choose a method that relates to the job description, such as the Hay Group Method or the Waterfall Model, and explain why it’s beneficial for this role.

Example: “I’ve worked extensively with both the Waterfall Model and the Hay Group Method in my previous roles, and I find each one has its own benefits. The Waterfall Model is great for large projects because it allows me to break down tasks into smaller pieces so I can monitor progress more closely. However, the Hay Group Method is better for complex projects because it helps me identify risks early on and plan strategies to mitigate those risks.”

This question can help the interviewer understand your perspective on what’s most important in an evaluation. Your answer should reflect your understanding of the role and how you would approach it.

Example: “I think the most important aspect of an evaluation is that it provides a clear picture of the employee’s performance. I believe this is essential to making sure employees are performing at their best, which helps the organization achieve its goals. In my last position, I developed a system for tracking employee progress so we could ensure our evaluations were thorough and accurate.”

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your experience conducting evaluations and how often you think they should be done. When answering, it can be helpful to mention the frequency of your past evaluations and what factors influenced that number.

Example: “In my previous role as an evaluation specialist, I conducted annual performance reviews with employees. In my current role as a human resources manager, I have seen many different approaches to conducting employee evaluations. Some companies conduct them every six months while others do so only once per year. Ultimately, I believe it depends on the company culture and the needs of the organization.”

This question can help interviewers understand how you would handle a challenging situation at work. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to communicate with others in the workplace.

Example: “If I noticed there was a discrepancy between my data collection and the program administrators’ reports, I would first ask for clarification on what they reported. Then, I would compare the two sets of data to see if there were any differences. If there are discrepancies, I would contact the program administrator to find out why their data is different from mine. It’s possible that they may have collected more accurate information than me or that something went wrong during my data collection process.”

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20 Common Researcher Interview Questions and Answers

Common Researcher interview questions, how to answer them, and sample answers from a certified career coach.

You’ve been invited to interview for a research position—congratulations! You know you have the skills and experience, but now it’s time to prove it.

The key to success? Being prepared. To help make sure you shine in your upcoming interview, we’ve compiled some of the most common questions asked during research interviews. Read on, get familiar with them, and practice your answers so you can ace that job interview like a pro.

• What research methods do you use to collect data?
• How do you ensure the accuracy and validity of your research results?
• Describe a time when you had to analyze complex data sets and draw meaningful conclusions from them.
• Explain how you would go about designing an experiment or survey to answer a specific research question.
• Are you familiar with any statistical software programs? If so, which ones?
• What strategies do you use to stay organized while conducting research?
• How do you handle ethical considerations when conducting research?
• Have you ever encountered a situation where you had to adjust your research methodology due to unexpected circumstances?
• Describe a time when you had to present your research findings in a clear and concise manner.
• Do you have experience working with large datasets?
• What challenges have you faced when collecting primary data for a research project?
• How do you approach writing up a research paper or report?
• What techniques do you use to identify potential sources of bias in your research?
• How do you evaluate the quality of secondary sources used in your research?
• What strategies do you use to keep track of changes in the field of research you are studying?
• How do you decide which research questions to pursue?
• What is your experience with peer review processes?
• How do you manage competing demands on your time when conducting research?
• What strategies do you use to ensure that your research remains relevant and up-to-date?
• How do you ensure that your research meets the highest standards of academic integrity?

1. What research methods do you use to collect data?

Research methods are the core of any researcher’s job. You’ll need to be familiar with a variety of different methods, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, and experiments, and be able to explain how you use each one in your work. This will help the interviewer understand your process and how you can contribute to their organization.

How to Answer:

You should be prepared to explain the research methods you have used in your past work. Talk about how you use surveys, interviews, focus groups, and experiments to collect data, as well as any other methods you may have experience with. If you’re just starting out, then talk through the steps you would take to select a method for each project. You can also mention any specialized methods or software that you are familiar with.

Example: “I use a variety of research methods to collect data, depending on the project. I often use surveys and interviews as primary sources of information, but I also have experience with focus groups, experiments, and software tools like Qualtrics for collecting quantitative data. I’m familiar with specialized methods such as content analysis and ethnography when appropriate. My goal is always to select the method that will provide the most accurate and reliable data for each project.”

2. How do you ensure the accuracy and validity of your research results?

Research requires a level of precision that goes beyond the normal workplace. Good researchers are able to identify what data is relevant and how to collect it in order to make reliable conclusions. Interviewers will want to know that you have the skills and knowledge to conduct research that is both accurate and valid. They’ll also want to know if you use any specific methods or tools to ensure accuracy and validity.

You should be prepared to explain what methods you use to ensure accuracy and validity of your research. This could include double-checking sources, using multiple data points, or triangulating information from different sources to verify results. You can also mention any specific tools or techniques you use, such as conducting surveys or interviews with experts in the field. Be sure to emphasize how important it is for you to make sure that your research is accurate and valid before drawing conclusions.

Example: “When I was working on a research project for ABC Corporation, I had to analyze the data from three different sources. My approach was to use statistical analysis techniques and software tools to cross-reference the data sets and identify any potential discrepancies or outliers. After analyzing the results, I identified a number of key trends that allowed us to draw meaningful conclusions about the company’s operations. The insights gained from this research ultimately led to improvements in the organization’s processes, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity.”

3. Describe a time when you had to analyze complex data sets and draw meaningful conclusions from them.

Research projects often involve a lot of data analysis and interpretation. Knowing how to take large amounts of data and make it into something meaningful is a valuable skill for any researcher. This question is a way for the interviewer to gauge your ability to work with data and draw meaningful conclusions from it.

You should be prepared to provide a specific example of when you had to analyze complex data sets and draw meaningful conclusions from them. Talk about the project, your approach to analyzing the data, and any insights or conclusions that you drew from it. Be sure to emphasize the impact of your findings on the project or organization as well.

Example: “I recently worked on a project for my previous employer in which I had to analyze a large and complex data set. My approach was to break down the data into smaller, more manageable chunks and then look for patterns or correlations between different variables. After doing this, I was able to identify a few key trends that were relevant to the project goals. This allowed us to make better decisions about how to allocate resources and focus our efforts, resulting in a successful outcome.”

4. Explain how you would go about designing an experiment or survey to answer a specific research question.

This question is designed to determine if you have the skills necessary to design and implement valid research experiments. The interviewer wants to know if you understand the fundamentals of research design, such as how to select a sample, how to develop a hypothesis, and how to determine the validity of a study. They also want to know if you can explain the process in a clear and concise manner.

Start by explaining the steps you would take to design an experiment or survey. You should include the following: defining the research question, selecting a sample, developing a hypothesis, creating a data collection plan, and determining how to analyze the results. Be sure to explain any specific techniques you might use in each step, such as random sampling or stratified sampling for your sample selection process. Finally, emphasize the importance of validating the results to ensure they are accurate and reliable.

Example: “When designing an experiment or survey, the first step is to define the research question. Once the research question has been identified, I would then select a sample that is representative of the population being studied. I would also develop a hypothesis based on my understanding of the research question and the available data. After that, I would create a data collection plan that outlines how the data will be collected, such as using surveys, interviews, or focus groups. Finally, I would determine the best method for analyzing the results in order to draw valid conclusions from the research. In all cases, it’s important to validate the results to ensure they are accurate and reliable.”

5. Are you familiar with any statistical software programs? If so, which ones?

Researchers often have to analyze data and present it in a meaningful way. This requires familiarity with statistical software programs like SPSS, SAS, or R. Knowing how to use these programs is a critical part of being a successful researcher, so this question is meant to gauge your level of expertise.

If you are familiar with any of the programs mentioned above, be sure to mention that and explain how you have used them in past research projects. If you are not familiar with these programs, it is still important to emphasize your ability to learn new software quickly. Explain how you approach learning new technologies and provide examples of times when you have successfully done so in the past.

Example: “I have used SPSS and SAS in my previous research projects. I am also comfortable with learning new statistical software programs, as I have done so on multiple occasions in the past. For example, when starting a new project at my last job, I was asked to learn R quickly in order to analyze data. Within two weeks, I had become proficient enough to use it for all of our research needs.”

6. What strategies do you use to stay organized while conducting research?

Research can be a long and complex process, with lots of data to sift through, organize, and analyze. It’s important to show the interviewer that you have a system in place to stay organized throughout the research process, from the initial research plan to the final report. This will demonstrate that you can effectively manage your time and resources, as well as prioritize tasks and remain focused on the task at hand.

You can answer this question by talking about the strategies you use to stay organized while conducting research. You could mention that you create detailed research plans, break down large tasks into smaller ones, and prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines. Additionally, you could talk about how you utilize organizational tools such as spreadsheets and databases to store data, track progress, and easily access information when needed. Finally, you might also discuss how you take notes during your research process in order to keep track of important ideas or findings.

Example: “I use a variety of strategies to stay organized while conducting research. I always start by creating a detailed research plan that outlines the scope of my work and any deadlines associated with it. From there, I break down large tasks into smaller ones in order to tackle them more efficiently. Additionally, I prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines in order to remain focused on the task at hand. To help store data, track progress, and access information quickly, I also utilize organizational tools such as spreadsheets and databases. Finally, I take notes during my research process in order to keep track of important ideas or findings.”

7. How do you handle ethical considerations when conducting research?

Research often involves collecting personal data, and it’s important that researchers understand how to approach these situations with respect and integrity. Interviewers want to know that you are aware of ethical considerations and that you are capable of adhering to them. This question is likely to be asked to all potential researchers, as it is an important part of the job.

Talk about the ethical considerations you take into account when conducting research. These can include obtaining informed consent from participants, ensuring confidentiality and anonymity of data, respecting privacy laws, protecting vulnerable populations, and considering potential biases that may arise in your research. You should also mention any processes or protocols you have implemented to ensure ethical compliance with research projects. Finally, emphasize how important it is for researchers to adhere to ethical standards and how seriously you take them.

Example: “I understand the importance of adhering to ethical standards when conducting research, and I take this responsibility very seriously. In my current position as a researcher at ABC University, I follow a strict protocol for obtaining informed consent from participants and ensuring that data is kept confidential and anonymous. I also make sure to consider any potential biases in our research before collecting data and am familiar with applicable privacy laws. Lastly, I always strive to protect vulnerable populations, such as children or those with disabilities, when conducting research.”

8. Have you ever encountered a situation where you had to adjust your research methodology due to unexpected circumstances?

Research is a dynamic process and researchers must be prepared to adjust their methods as needed. This question is designed to assess the flexibility of potential candidates and their ability to think on their feet. It also provides insight into how well a candidate understands the research process, including how to identify and address potential problems.

To answer this question, provide an example of a situation where you had to adjust your research methodology due to unexpected circumstances. Explain how you identified the problem and how you adjusted your methods in order to successfully complete the project. Be sure to emphasize any creative solutions you implemented and the positive outcome that resulted from your adjustment.

Example: “I recently encountered a situation where I had to adjust my research methodology due to unexpected circumstances. I was conducting a survey to analyze consumer behavior in relation to a new product launch. After collecting the first round of data, I noticed a discrepancy in the results that could not be explained. After further investigation, I realized that the sample size I was using was not large enough to accurately capture the data. I quickly adjusted my methodology by increasing the sample size and collecting more data, which ultimately allowed me to identify the discrepancy and provide an accurate analysis of consumer behavior.”

9. Describe a time when you had to present your research findings in a clear and concise manner.

Researchers often have to communicate their findings to colleagues, stakeholders, and the public. The ability to communicate complex research findings in an understandable way is a key skill for someone in this role. This question allows the interviewer to gauge your ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and concise manner.

You should come prepared with an example of a time when you had to present your research findings. Talk about the project, what the goal was, and how you went about presenting it. If possible, provide specific details such as the type of presentation (oral, written, etc.), who you presented to, and the feedback you received. You should also explain the strategies that you used to make sure that the audience understood your message. This could include using visual aids, breaking down complex concepts into simpler terms, or providing examples to illustrate your points.

Example: “My most recent research project focused on the long-term effects of climate change on agricultural production. I knew that it was important to make sure that the findings were presented in a way that was easy to understand and digest. I created a PowerPoint presentation that included visuals and graphs to illustrate my points, as well as a written report that provided a detailed breakdown of the findings. I then presented my findings to a group of stakeholders and received positive feedback. They appreciated my ability to take complex concepts and explain them in a way that was easy to understand.”

10. Do you have experience working with large datasets?

Many research roles require the ability to work with large datasets and analyze the information within them. This question helps employers understand how comfortable you are with such tasks, and it also serves as a way to gauge your technical skills. To answer this question, talk about how you’ve used various tools and techniques to analyze data and how you’ve been able to draw meaningful insights from it.

Start by talking about the types of datasets you’ve worked with, such as structured or unstructured data, and explain how you’ve gone about analyzing them. Then, provide a few examples of projects you’ve completed that involved working with large datasets. Finally, discuss any tools or techniques you’ve used to work with the data, such as statistical software, data visualization tools, machine learning algorithms, etc. Be sure to emphasize your ability to draw meaningful insights from the data and how those insights have helped inform decisions.

Example: “I have experience working with large datasets in both structured and unstructured formats. I have utilized various tools and techniques to analyze the data, such as statistical software and data visualization tools. I’ve also employed machine learning algorithms to uncover patterns and trends from the data. For example, in my most recent project I utilized a variety of data sources to identify potential new markets for our company. Through analyzing the data, I was able to identify key demographic, geographic, and psychographic trends that we could use to target our new customers. This analysis provided valuable insights that informed our marketing strategy and ultimately led to increased sales.”

11. What challenges have you faced when collecting primary data for a research project?

Research often involves gathering primary data from sources such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, and observations. It’s important to determine whether the candidate has the skills necessary to design and implement a research project in order to successfully collect data. This question helps the interviewer understand the candidate’s ability to handle the logistics and challenges of primary data collection.

When answering this question, it’s important to provide specific examples of challenges you have faced and how you overcame them. For example, you could talk about the challenge of finding participants for a survey or focus group, or the difficulty in scheduling interviews with busy professionals. You can also discuss any logistical issues that arose during data collection, such as having unreliable equipment or dealing with uncooperative participants. Be sure to emphasize your problem-solving skills and ability to think on your feet when facing unexpected obstacles.

Example: “I’ve encountered a few challenges when gathering primary data for research projects. For example, when I was working on a survey project for a university, it took me several weeks to find participants willing to answer the survey. I had to be creative in my approach and reach out to different groups, such as student organizations, to recruit participants. I also encountered a few logistical issues, such as having unreliable equipment or dealing with uncooperative participants. I was able to quickly come up with solutions to these issues, such as having backup equipment and developing strategies to engage the participants. Overall, I was able to successfully gather the data I needed and produce valuable research findings.”

12. How do you approach writing up a research paper or report?

Research is a process that requires both creativity and structure. As a researcher, you must be able to synthesize information from a variety of sources, develop strong arguments, and communicate those arguments clearly and concisely in written form. Being able to articulate your approach to researching and writing up a paper will demonstrate your ability to think critically and logically.

Your answer should include the steps you take when writing up a research paper or report. This could include outlining your topic, researching relevant sources, organizing and synthesizing data, developing an argument, drafting and revising the paper, and proofreading for accuracy. It is also important to emphasize how you use critical thinking skills to develop strong arguments and draw meaningful conclusions from your research. Finally, make sure to mention any specific techniques or strategies that you have used successfully in the past.

Example: “When writing up a research paper or report, I approach the task systematically. I begin by outlining my topic and any relevant research questions. I then conduct research to find relevant sources, both primary and secondary. I carefully review and analyze the information I find, and use it to develop my argument. After that, I draft and revise the paper, making sure to include evidence to support my points. Finally, I proofread for accuracy and clarity. Throughout the process, I strive to use critical thinking skills to ensure that my arguments are sound and my conclusions are meaningful.”

13. What techniques do you use to identify potential sources of bias in your research?

Researchers need to be able to identify potential sources of bias in their work, such as selection bias or confirmation bias, in order to ensure the accuracy of their data and the validity of their results. By asking this question, the interviewer is gauging your ability to identify potential sources of bias and how you handle them.

To answer this question, you should discuss the techniques you use to identify potential sources of bias in your research. This could include methods such as double-checking data for accuracy and completeness, using multiple sources of information, or conducting blind studies. Additionally, you can talk about how you handle any biases you may find, such as adjusting your research design or changing your methodology. Be sure to emphasize that accuracy and validity are important to you and that you take steps to ensure they remain a priority.

Example: “I understand the importance of accuracy and validity in research, so I always strive to identify and address any potential sources of bias. I use several techniques to identify bias, such as double-checking my data for accuracy and completeness, using multiple sources of information, and conducting blind studies. When I do identify a potential source of bias, I adjust my research design or change my methodology to address it. I also make sure to communicate any changes to my team and stakeholders to ensure that we’re all on the same page.”

14. How do you evaluate the quality of secondary sources used in your research?

One of the most important skills of a researcher is being able to evaluate the quality of sources used in research. This question allows the interviewer to get a better understanding of your research process and your ability to critically evaluate sources. It also allows them to gauge your level of experience in the field and your knowledge of the research landscape.

To answer this question, you should explain your process for evaluating secondary sources. You can talk about the criteria that you use to evaluate a source’s credibility such as its author or publisher, the date of publication, and any peer reviews that have been conducted on the source. Additionally, you can mention any methods you use to assess the accuracy of information in the source such as cross-referencing with other sources or conducting additional research on the topic. Finally, you should discuss how you use these evaluations to inform your own research.

Example: “When evaluating the quality of secondary sources I use in my research, I consider a few key factors. I always look at the author or publisher of the source, the date of publication, and any peer reviews that have been conducted. I also use a variety of methods to assess the accuracy of the information in the source, such as cross-referencing with other sources and conducting additional research. From there, I use my evaluations to inform my own research and determine how best to use the source. This helps me ensure that I’m using the most reliable and up-to-date sources in my research.”

15. What strategies do you use to keep track of changes in the field of research you are studying?

Research is an ever-evolving field and keeping up with changes in the field is essential to remain relevant and up to date. Interviewers want to know that you have the skills and strategies to stay on top of the latest research, trends, and developments in the field. They’ll be looking for evidence that you have the self-discipline and organizational skills to stay on top of your work and be able to provide timely, accurate research.

You should be prepared to discuss the strategies and tools you use to stay up-to-date on changes in your field. Talk about how you keep track of new research articles, publications, conferences, and other sources of information that are relevant to your work. You can also talk about how you use technology such as RSS feeds, social media, or email alerts to ensure that you’re aware of any news or updates related to your research. Additionally, mention any methods you have for organizing and cataloging the information you collect so it is easily accessible when needed.

Example: “To stay on top of changes in my field, I use a variety of strategies and tools. I subscribe to relevant RSS feeds and email alerts to ensure I’m aware of any new research articles or publications. I also use social media to follow industry leaders and experts in the field and get updates on their work. I also keep an organized library of research material that I have collected over the years. I use a combination of software tools and physical filing systems to keep track of all the information I need. This allows me to quickly access any information I need, when I need it.”

16. How do you decide which research questions to pursue?

Being a researcher requires the ability to prioritize and select the best questions to pursue in order to achieve the desired outcome. This question helps the interviewer get a sense of your process and how you approach problem solving. It also gives them an insight into your critical thinking skills, as well as your ability to analyze data and make meaningful conclusions.

The best way to answer this question is to provide a step-by-step approach of how you decide which research questions to pursue. Start by explaining the research process you go through, such as collecting data, analyzing it and forming hypotheses. Then explain how you prioritize certain questions based on their importance and relevance to the project at hand. Finally, discuss how you use your findings to make informed decisions about which questions are worth pursuing further.

Example: “When I’m deciding which research questions to pursue, I start by gathering all the available data related to the project. From there, I analyze the data to form hypotheses and then prioritize the questions based on their importance and relevance to the project. I also consider the impact each question could have on the overall outcome of the research. Once I have a list of the most important questions, I evaluate the data and use my findings to make informed decisions about which questions are worth pursuing further. Ultimately, my goal is to select the best questions that will yield the most meaningful results.”

17. What is your experience with peer review processes?

Peer review is a critical part of the research process. It requires that researchers review and critique each other’s work in order to ensure that the research is unbiased and credible. This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your knowledge of the research process and your ability to work with other researchers.

To answer this question, you should provide specific examples of your experience with peer review processes. Talk about how you have worked with other researchers to review and critique their work, as well as how you have incorporated feedback from peers into your own research. You can also discuss any challenges or successes you had during the process. Finally, emphasize your understanding of the importance of peer review in the research process and why it is necessary for producing high-quality results.

Example: “I have extensive experience with peer review processes, both as a reviewer and as an author. I have worked with other researchers to review their work and provide constructive feedback, as well as incorporating feedback from peers into my own research. I understand the importance of peer review in the research process and am committed to producing high-quality results. I have also had success in resolving disagreements between reviewers and authors when needed, and I have a strong track record of producing quality research that has been accepted for publication.”

18. How do you manage competing demands on your time when conducting research?

Research can be a demanding job, with a lot of deadlines, competing agendas, and complex data sets to analyze. The interviewer wants to make sure you can prioritize tasks, keep track of multiple projects, and adjust when needed. Your ability to manage competing demands on your time is a key indicator of how successful you will be at the job.

To answer this question, you should focus on how you prioritize tasks and manage deadlines. Talk about the strategies you use to stay organized, such as setting up a calendar or using task management tools. Also discuss any techniques you have for staying focused when there are multiple demands on your time. Finally, emphasize your ability to adjust your plans when needed, such as if an unexpected project comes in or a deadline needs to be moved up.

Example: “I have a few strategies for managing competing demands on my time when conducting research. I prioritize tasks by breaking them down into smaller, manageable chunks and then assigning deadlines to each one. I also use task management tools to keep track of what I need to do and stay organized. And I make sure to take regular breaks to stay focused and energized. When I need to adjust my plans due to unexpected events, I’m able to reassess and re-prioritize my tasks accordingly. I’m confident in my ability to manage competing demands on my time and stay organized when conducting research.”

19. What strategies do you use to ensure that your research remains relevant and up-to-date?

Research is a dynamic field, and the best researchers know that they need to stay informed of the latest developments and trends in order to remain relevant. This question allows your interviewer to assess your knowledge of the field and your commitment to keeping up with the latest research. It shows that you are aware of the need to stay ahead of the curve and that you have the skills to do so.

To answer this question, you should start by discussing the strategies that you use to stay informed. You can talk about how you read industry publications, attend conferences and seminars, or network with other researchers in your field. You should also mention any specific platforms or tools that you use to keep up-to-date on the latest research. Finally, you should explain why staying informed is important to you and how it helps you do better work.

Example: “I use a variety of strategies to ensure that my research remains relevant and up-to-date. I read industry publications, attend conferences and seminars, and network with other researchers to stay informed. I also use specific tools like Google Scholar and ResearchGate to keep track of new developments in my field. It’s important to me to stay ahead of the curve and make sure that my research is as current and relevant as possible. Doing so not only helps me do better work, but it also helps me to provide more value to my employer and contribute to the success of their projects.”

20. How do you ensure that your research meets the highest standards of academic integrity?

Research is the backbone of any organization, and it is crucial for a researcher to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. Employers want to know that you understand the importance of being thorough and accurate, as well as ethical in your research. They may also want to know how you go about verifying the accuracy of your data and sources, and how you ensure that your research meets the standards expected in the field.

Start off by detailing the steps you take to ensure that your research meets academic integrity standards. For example, you can mention how you always double-check sources and data for accuracy and reliability, or how you use peer review processes to vet your work. Additionally, be sure to emphasize any specific techniques or methods you have used in the past to verify the validity of your findings. Finally, explain why it is important to you to maintain the highest level of academic integrity in your research.

Example: “I understand the importance of academic integrity and take it very seriously in my research. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy, I always double-check my sources and data, and use peer review processes to vet my work. Additionally, I frequently use replication studies to verify the validity of my findings. To me, it is essential to ensure that my research meets the highest standards of academic integrity, as it is the foundation of any successful research project.”

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17 Monitoring And Evaluation Specialist Interview Questions and Answers

• Protected: Test Center

Learn what skills and qualities interviewers are looking for from a monitoring and evaluation specialist, what questions you can expect, and how you should go about answering them.

A monitoring and evaluation specialist is responsible for the collection and analysis of data with the goal of improving the effectiveness of programs and projects. They work in a variety of fields, such as public health, education, and international development.

Before you can be hired for this important role, you will likely need to go through a job interview. To help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of sample questions and answers that you can expect to be asked during your interview.

COMMON MONITORING AND EVALUATION SPECIALIST INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Are you familiar with the concept of program evaluation?

What are some of the most important qualities for a monitoring and evaluation specialist to have?

How would you go about collecting data for a program evaluation?

What is your experience with using data to make decisions?

Provide an example of a time when you had to make a recommendation based on your analysis of a program’s data.

If hired, what would be your priorities during your first few weeks on the job?

What would you do if you noticed a discrepancy in the data you were collecting?

How well do you communicate your findings in writing?

Do you have any experience working with software programs designed for monitoring and evaluation?

When evaluating a program, what are the most important factors you consider?

We want to improve our program based on the results of our evaluation. Describe a few changes you would make to our current program based on your evaluation.

Describe your experience working with a team of people with different job functions.

What makes you the best candidate for this job?

Which industries do you have experience working in?

What do you think is the most important aspect of monitoring and evaluation?

How often do you recommend performing program evaluations?

There is a new program that you need to evaluate. Describe the steps you would take to start

Question 1 – Are you familiar with the concept of program evaluation?

Monitoring and evaluation specialists must be able to understand the concept of program evaluation. This question allows you to show your interviewer that you have a basic understanding of this process and how it can help organizations improve their programs.

Example: “Yes, I am familiar with the concept of program evaluation. Program evaluation is when an organization or company analyzes its current programs to see if they are meeting their goals. If not, then the organization will make changes to ensure the program meets its objectives. Monitoring and evaluation specialists use data collection methods to evaluate programs.”

Question 2 – What are some of the most important qualities for a monitoring and evaluation specialist to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you possess the necessary skills and abilities to succeed in this role. Use your answer to highlight your communication, analytical and problem-solving skills as well as your ability to work independently or with a team.

Example: “The most important qualities for me are my attention to detail, my ability to remain organized and my passion for helping others. Monitoring and evaluation specialists need to be able to collect data accurately and analyze it thoroughly so that they can provide their organization with useful information. I am passionate about making sure that our projects have measurable results and that we’re using resources wisely.”

Question 3 – How would you go about collecting data for a program evaluation?

Monitoring and evaluation specialists need to be able to collect data for program evaluations. Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to do this effectively. In your answer, explain the steps you would take to complete this task. Make sure that your steps are clear and easy to follow.

Example : “I would first identify what information I needed to collect. Then, I would create a plan for collecting that data. For example, if I was working on an education program, I might decide to survey teachers about their experiences with the program. Next, I would implement my plan by contacting the teachers and asking them to fill out the surveys. After they filled out the surveys, I would analyze the results of the surveys.”

Question 4 – What is your experience with using data to make decisions?

Monitoring and evaluation specialists use data to make decisions about the success of a program or project. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience with using data to support important decisions. Use your answer to describe your past experiences with monitoring and evaluating projects, programs and initiatives.

Example: “In my last role as a monitoring and evaluation specialist, I used data to help determine which projects were most successful and which ones needed improvement. For example, I monitored several different aspects of each project, including how many people completed their goals, what types of resources they used and whether they met any deadlines. From there, I could evaluate the success of each project based on these metrics.”

Question 5 – Provide an example of a time when you had to make a recommendation based on your analysis of a program’s data.

This question can help the interviewer determine how you use data to make recommendations and implement change. Use examples from your experience that highlight your critical thinking skills, ability to analyze information and willingness to challenge conventional approaches or ideas.

Example : “In my last role as a monitoring and evaluation specialist for an education nonprofit organization, I was tasked with analyzing the effectiveness of our summer reading program. After reviewing the data, I noticed that although we were reaching many students during the school year, there was no evidence that they were retaining what they learned over the summer break.

I presented this finding to my supervisor, who asked me to develop a solution. I decided to create a summer reading curriculum that could be used by parents at home. This approach helped us increase retention rates by 10% after one year of implementation.”

Question 6 – If hired, what would be your priorities during your first few weeks on the job?

This question helps employers understand how you plan to get started in your new role. Prioritizing tasks is an important skill for a monitoring and evaluation specialist, so they want to know that you can do this effectively. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to learn about the organization and its goals. Explain which projects you would start working on right away.

Example : “I would first spend time getting to know the organization’s mission and values. I would also read through any reports or documents related to the organization’s previous work. Then, I would meet with my supervisor to discuss their expectations for me. After that, I would begin analyzing data from past projects to determine where we should focus our efforts moving forward.”

Question 7 – What would you do if you noticed a discrepancy in the data you were collecting?

Monitoring and evaluation specialists must be able to identify errors in their data collection. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills necessary to perform your job well. In your answer, explain how you would correct the error and prevent it from happening again. Show that you are a problem solver who can use critical thinking skills to solve issues as they arise.

Example: “If I noticed a discrepancy in my data collection, I would first try to figure out what caused it. If I could not find an explanation for the mistake, I would contact my supervisor immediately so we could discuss our next steps. We would then decide whether or not to re-collect the data. If we decided to do so, we would ensure all of the new data was accurate.”

Question 8 – How well do you communicate your findings in writing?

Monitoring and evaluation specialists often write reports about their findings. These reports are important for communicating information to stakeholders, so interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your writing skills. In your answer, explain how you organize your thoughts into written documents. Share an example of a report you wrote in the past that helped others understand your findings.

Example : “I have excellent communication skills when it comes to writing reports. I am able to clearly communicate my ideas through well-organized and detailed reports. In my last role, I was responsible for creating monthly reports on our program’s progress. My reports included data from surveys we conducted with community members as well as qualitative feedback from staff members. The stakeholders were impressed by the thoroughness of my reports.”

Question 9 – Do you have any experience working with software programs designed for monitoring and evaluation?

Monitoring and evaluation specialists use software programs to collect data, analyze information and create reports. The interviewer may ask this question to learn about your experience with these types of programs. If you have experience using monitoring and evaluation software, share the name of the program and describe a time when you used it effectively. If you don’t have experience working with monitoring and evaluation software, consider sharing your experience with other similar software programs.

Example : “I’ve worked with several different monitoring and evaluation software programs in my previous role as a monitoring and evaluation specialist. I find that each program has its own unique features, so I try to learn how to use each one well. In my last position, I was responsible for collecting data on our organization’s projects and creating reports based on that data. I used the monitoring and evaluation software program we had at the time to gather data from surveys and interviews and then enter that data into the system. From there, I could easily generate reports.”

Question 10 – When evaluating a program, what are the most important factors you consider?

Monitoring and evaluation specialists must be able to evaluate programs they are working on. This question helps the interviewer determine how you prioritize your work. Use examples from past projects that show you know what is most important when evaluating a program.

Example : “I believe the most important factors I consider when monitoring and evaluating a program are its goals, objectives and metrics. These three things help me understand whether or not the program is achieving its intended results. For example, in my last role, we were tasked with creating an online training course for new employees. We set specific goals for the program, including increasing employee retention rates by 10% within six months of completing the training. The objectives of the program included identifying key concepts of the training course and providing real-world examples. Finally, we used metrics to measure our success, such as completion rate and time spent on each lesson.”

Question 11 – We want to improve our program based on the results of our evaluation. Describe a few changes you would make to our current program based on your evaluation.

This question is a great way to show your critical thinking skills and how you would apply them to an organization. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about the results of the evaluation and what changes you would make to improve the program.

Example : “I would recommend that we add more training for our volunteers on how to use the software they’re using in their projects. I noticed that many volunteers were having trouble with the software because they weren’t familiar with it. This led to some data being lost or not recorded properly, which affected the accuracy of our reports. If I was working at your organization, I would suggest adding additional training sessions to help volunteers learn how to use the software.”

Question 12 – Describe your experience working with a team of people with different job functions.

Monitoring and evaluation specialists often work with a variety of people, including other monitoring and evaluation specialists, program managers, data analysts and more. Employers ask this question to make sure you can collaborate well with others. Use your answer to show that you are a team player who is willing to share information and help others succeed.

Example: “I have worked in several different roles throughout my career, so I am used to working alongside many different types of professionals. In my current role as a monitoring and evaluation specialist, I work closely with a team of data analysts, program managers and other monitoring and evaluation specialists. We all use the same tools to collect data, so we need to be able to communicate effectively about our findings. I always try to be open-minded when discussing my own analysis and interpretation of data. This helps me learn from others and improve my own skills.”

Question 13 – What makes you the best candidate for this job?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their organization. Before your interview, make a list of all the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this role. Focus on highlighting your most relevant skills and abilities while also showing enthusiasm for the job.

Example : “I am passionate about working in international development because I want to help people around the world. In my previous roles, I have gained experience with monitoring and evaluating programs, which has prepared me for this position. My communication skills are strong, so I know I can work well with others on this team. I am excited to use my skills to support this program.”

Question 14 – Which industries do you have experience working in?

Monitoring and evaluation specialists often work in a variety of industries. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience level and determine if you have the necessary skills for their organization. Before your interview, make sure to read through the job description to see which industries the employer works with most. In your answer, share two or three industries that you have experience working in and explain why you are qualified for those positions.

Example : “I’ve worked primarily in education but also have some experience in healthcare. I find both of these industries interesting because they involve collecting data from people who use services. Monitoring and evaluation is all about understanding how different systems affect people, so I think my experiences in these fields can help me succeed in this role.”

Question 15 – What do you think is the most important aspect of monitoring and evaluation?

This question can help the interviewer understand your priorities and how you might approach a project. Your answer should show that you know what monitoring and evaluation entails, but it can also be an opportunity to highlight any skills or experience you have in this area.

Example: “I think the most important aspect of monitoring and evaluation is making sure we’re collecting data that’s relevant to our goals. If we don’t collect accurate information, then we won’t be able to make informed decisions about our projects. I’ve worked on several projects where we had to change our methods because we weren’t getting enough useful data. In those cases, I helped my team find new ways to gather information so we could continue with our projects.”

Question 16 – How often do you recommend performing program evaluations?

Monitoring and evaluation specialists need to have a strong understanding of when it’s appropriate to perform program evaluations. Interviewers may ask this question to see if you can apply your knowledge of the best times to evaluate programs. In your answer, explain that monitoring and evaluation is an ongoing process. You should recommend performing program evaluations at regular intervals throughout the life cycle of a program.

Example: “I believe that monitoring and evaluation are processes that should be performed regularly throughout the life cycle of a program. I think it’s important to assess how well a program is meeting its goals on a regular basis so we can make any necessary adjustments as needed. For example, in my last role, I recommended conducting program evaluations every six months. This allowed us to identify issues early enough to implement changes before they became major problems.”

Question 17 – There is a new program that you need to evaluate. Describe the steps you would take to start the evaluation process.

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to see how you approach new projects and evaluate their success. Use your answer to highlight your ability to work independently, analyze data and communicate with others about the results of your evaluations.

Example : “When I start a new evaluation project, I first read through all of the information that my supervisor or client has provided me. This helps me understand what they expect from the program and gives me an idea of what metrics I should be tracking. Next, I create a plan for monitoring the program’s progress. I usually do this by creating a timeline for when I will collect data on each metric and who I will need to speak with in order to get more information. Finally, I begin collecting data and analyzing it so I can provide my client with a report on the program’s status.”

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Interviews are conversations between an investigator (interviewer) and a respondent (‘interviewees’, ‘informants’ or ‘sources’) in which questions are asked in order to obtain information.

Interviews seek to collect data and narrative information in order to better understand the respondent’s unique perspectives, opinions, and world-views. Interviewing is a fundamental methodology for both quantitative and qualitative social research and evaluation.

For Interviews with Individuals see:

A convergent interview is a type of interview intended to explore issues widely through a combination of unstructured interviews and a maximum diversity sample.

Key informant interviews involve interviewing people who have particularly informed perspectives on an aspect of the program being evaluated.

An in-depth interview is a type of interview with an individual that aims to collect detailed information beyond initial and surface-level answers.

For Interviews with Groups see:

A focus group is a type of group interview designed to explore peoples attitudes.

Types of interviews

There are many different types of interview approaches and techniques, Generally speaking, all interviews fall into one of three categories:  structured ,  semi-structured , and  depth/unstructured interviews .

• Structured interviews  are most typically used in quantitative investigations, including survey research. In structured interviews, the interviewer presents the interviewee with a standardized set of questions, often in questionnaire form. These questions usually have pre-set answers from which the interviewee selects, rather than ‘open-ended’ questions. Each individual interview features the same set of questions, asked in a fixed order. All questions included in the research design are asked in each interview session. Structured interview questions are the most common type used in surveying interviewing.
• Semi-structured interviews  center around a mixed framework of general themes and pre-established questions, which can be adapted in the context of individual sessions. The interviewers is thus free to leave certain questions out, mix the order of questions, or ask certain standard questions in different ways depending on context. Semi-structured interviews also rely on a combination of both open and closed questions.
• Unstructured interviews  – also known as ‘informal’ or ‘conversational’ interviews – are wholly qualitative, and include only topic areas and themes rather than standard questions. Unstructured interviews take the form of natural conversation between two or more people, and allow the interviewer to pursue follow-up questions or new lines of discussion as they see fit. Closed questions are avoided, and the interviewee is often asked to identify the information they feel is most important for the discussion.

In practice, these three approaches are routinely combined. Qualitative exploratory interviewing, for instance, can prove a good compliment to more structured interviewing using  closed questions later in an evaluation.

A large number of more specific interviewing techniques fall under this broad taxonomy; including telephone interviews, computer-assisted interviewing, elite interviewing, life histories, household surveys and Key Informant Interviews which are  interviews with people who have particularly informed perspectives on the project.  (Group interviews, including  focus groups , and  survey research  require sufficiently specialized methodological approaches as to be considered separate from general interview methodology, although many of the fundamentals overlap.)

Whatever approach the investigator selects, the interviewing processes itself follows several general stages:

• First, investigators design and plan the study, determining both generalized approach (structured, semi-structured, unstructured), specific technique, the research questions to be asked, and any practical, conceptual and ethical external factors to consider. Interviewers also undertake any specialized training/preparations required.
• Second, the interviews themselves are conducted, and their results are subsequently transcribed. (Be warned that the transcription process can take as long, if not longer, than the interviewing itself.)
• Third, the results of the interviews are analyses and interpreted using the investigator’s chosen option of analysis. During this stage, verification of the data and findings collected from the interviews is also required.
• Fourth, results are reported.

Conducting the interview itself is as much ‘art’ as ‘science’, and requires practice. That said, the following steps provide a useful guide:

• Opening up the interview : Begin with informal introductions and small talk, then properly introduce the investigation, interview format and structure to the participants, allowing the opportunity for them to withdraw their consent prior to its start.
• Administer questions : Ask the questions of the interviewee, while recording their answers by hand, audio recorder, or video tape. Pay close attention to both the answers being recorded and, especially for semi- and unstructured interviews, the emerging themes, perspectives, opinions, and underlying logic which is being elicited in the respondent’s answers – all of these should be noted and if appropriate, probed further. Inconsistencies and diversionary answers should also be watched out for. Respondents should always be given the space during discussions to form their own answers. The investigator should also keep an eye on the time throughout.
• Closing down the interview : After all questions have been asked, the investigator should ask the respondent their feelings on the interview, and whether they have anything further to add. It is particularly useful to summarise the key points of the discussion with the respondent while they are still there. End by thanking the respondent for their time. If possible, review notes immediately after and expand on any annotations made during the interview while it is still ‘fresh’ in your mind.

Keep in mind that specific interview techniques will require important variations of this approach – a telephone interview is conducted very differently than a one-to-one interview, as is a focus group. See relevant options entries for more on each.

• Ethics:  Finally, it is the investigator’s duty to ensure that they adhere to proper ethical interviewing standards. First, interviews should only be conducted with  informed consent  – permission should be sought in a transparent way from interviewees, and granted, prior to the interview. This step should be conducted alongside  risk assessments  to identify potential risks to interviews and address them in the content process. Second, rights to  confidentiality  and  anonymity  must be offered where appropriate – keep in mind that many governments have strict laws about both confidentiality and circumstances where important/dangerous information cannot be kept confidential (for example, in instances of severe domestic or child abuse, etc.) Third,  fair return for assistance  should be considered, whether in terms of financial or material compensation. (compensation is itself a tricky ethical issue, and policies may differ by organization and context, but should be addressed and discussed prior to the start of the interview process.) Finally, be aware that interviewing vulnerable groups – including children, disabled people, elderly people, victims of violence, etc – bring with it a range of unique ethical considerations. An example of   ethical guidelines for social research prepared by professional research associations to govern their professions may serve as a useful starting point. See, for example, The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Framework for Social Ethics .

This following example of a semi-structured interview guide was prepared for the World Health Organization's (WHO) training package on substance use, sexual and reproductive health as part of the M&E component of a street children project.

(WHO 2002 p.31)

Advice for choosing this method

In general, interviews have the following strengths :

• Depth and context of data – interviews elicit insights and perspective’s into people’s though-processes and rationales behind a particular issue, and are able to articulate their ‘story’ in their own words.
• Access – Interviews, particularly one-to-one interviews, can permit the investigator to access individuals unwilling or unable to participate in focus groups or surveys.

And the following weaknesses :

• Interviews are time-consuming – in terms of identifying subjects, negotiating access, logistics, direct interviewing time, and lengthy transcriptions.
• Less-structured interview data is difficult to analyze.
• ‘Interviewer effect’ – in which the interviewer’s presence and behavior bias the interviewee’s response – is a consistent challenge to avoid, as are unintended transgressions of individual’s comfort-zones and levels of privacy.
• People’s narrative explanations do not always conform to the reality of a situation, which requires consideration of reliability and triangulation.
• Keep in mind that a translator may be required to assist in both the interview and transcription if the investigator does not speak the same language as the interviewee – keep in mind that this requires additional coordination between the translator and interviewer to ensure all questions are delivered as intended. Interviewers should also be involved in the post-interview review and analysis.
• While most interviews outside group settings include only one interviewer, it can often be useful to consider including a second interviewer. Ideally, this second interviewer can also serve as the translator if needed, and can focus on note-taking while the first interviewer focuses on questions. Can also provide feedback and perspective after the interview is complete, and interviews can often benefit from two people with different perspectives asking different types of questions.

Advice for using this method

Interviewing is a unique and somewhat intuitive skill which requires practice. The following are a few, but by no means all, guidance on how to ask good questions.

On question design:

• Good questions should be clear, specific, unambiguous, and directly related to the overarching research question. They should ideally concern one issue or topic at a time, and be worded in clear, jargon and technical-free language. They should ask only subjects respondents can be reasonably expected to possess information on.
• Questions should be neutral in tone.
• Investigators must always remain aware of the danger of ‘leading questions’. Leading questions are those which encourage the respondent to answer in a particular way, thus biasing your resulting answer and potentially discrediting your research. (wouldn’t you agree that this project should be recognisedas a success?) To avoid asking leading questions – which can often be difficult to spot yourself – ask a colleague to review your questions for you.
• Similarly, investigators should avoid questions which presume information (i.e. asking ‘what age did you graduate primary school’ presumes the respondent attended primary school), questions which contain subtle or explicit value judgments (i.e. asking ‘at what age were you forced to marry?’ to someone who was not forced to marry), and of course, any questions which may be considered rude, offensive, or insensitive (determining which will always depend on context, culture, and the individual).
• Place questions in a logical order – for instance, beginning with an interesting and nonthreatening question which all respondents may be expected to answer confidently. (Conversely, do not open your interviewing with your most challenging or potentially embarrassing questions – rather, sensitively introduce them later in the interview after rapport has been established.)
• If at all possible, pilot-test your questions on a small group from your final sample to identify potential issues, and expect to redraft them multiple times before finalizing the list. 

On interviewing:

• Time-management and scheduling is critical. Arrive at every interview with an understanding of the timing involved in the entire interview and each individual question. Keep a discrete eye on the time to ensure you have enough time remaining. If possible, leave extra time to begin and end (in case of late arrivals and protracted ending small-talk). If possible, remind respondents a day or two before the scheduled interview.
• Pay close attention to your own body-language: maintain appropriate levels of eye contact. Also notice non-verbal signs in your respondents, and note them. Bring all relevant materials with you – typically, a notebook, writing tools, and any recording equipment (audio or video) needed. Ensure that your recording option (note-taking, taping) is workable in the context in which you will be doing the interview. Especially for long interviews get some water and maybe even food/ candies for you and your subject.
• Wait to establish rapport, when the interviewee appears most comfortable, before asking sensitive questions.
• Remain aware for potentially evasive, confused, or intentionally misleading/distracting response, and probe (gently) for clarification if necessary.
• It is important to allow interviewees the space to express themselves the way they feel most comfortable, in order to elicit the deepest and most honest responses. Be very careful to give these interviewees enough time to respond, and learn to be comfortable with pauses and silence.
• Always thank the respondent at the end of the interview.
• Immediately following the interview, take time to retire to a quiet place and expand or complete any notes you made during the session – your conversation will never be fresher in your mind.
• Continue to practice and refine your interviewing techniques.

This paper from the United States General Accounting Office (GAO) explains structured interview techniques for GAO evaluators and how they should be incorporated when appropriate.

This short guide defines in-depth interviews, explains their advantages and disadvantages and the steps involved in their application. 

This webpage outlines the circumstances in which qualitative interview techniques are best applied for the purpose of evaluation.

• Kvale, S. (1996) Interviews An Introduction to Qualitative Research Interviewing London: Sage Publications.
• Denscombe, M. (1998) The Good Research Guide for Small-Scale Social Research Projects,  Buckingham and Philadelphia: Th…
• Mertens, D and Ginsberg, P, eds. (2009) Handbook of Social Research Ethics. London: Sage Publications

Values Clarification Interviews involve interviewing key informants and intended beneficiaries to identify what they value.

Sewell, M. “The Use of Qualitative Interviews in Evaluation”, University of Arizona, Online 

World Health Organization (WHO). (2002) Working with street children : monitoring and evaluation of a street children project : a training package on substance abuse, sexual and reproductive health, including HIV/AIDS and STD . Online at  www.unodc.org/pdf/youthnet/who_street_children_evaluation.PDF

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• Evaluation tools
• Interviewing
• Methods for monitoring and evaluation
• Monitoring government policies: A toolkit for civil society organisations in Africa
• Participatory monitoring with Kungkas Can Cook (2019)
• Using rapid appraisal methods

'Interviews' is referenced in:

• Qualitative impact assessment protocol
• Week 34: Alternatives to transcribing interviews
• Week 5: The top ten developments in qualitative evaluation over the last decade – part 2
• Week 8: Guest blog: Innovation in development evaluation

Framework/Guide

• Rainbow Framework :  Collect and/ or retrieve data
• Concept mapping
• Key informant interviews
• Personal stories
• RAPID outcomes assessment
• Footprint evaluation
• Evaluating policy influence and advocacy
• Evaluating the performance of an organisation
• Sustained and Emerging Impacts Evaluation (SEIE)

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20 Research Officer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

It's important to prepare for an interview in order to improve your chances of getting the job. Researching questions beforehand can help you give better answers during the interview. Most interviews will include questions about your personality, qualifications, experience and how well you would fit the job. In this article, we review examples of various research officer interview questions and sample answers to some of the most common questions.

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Common Research Officer Interview Questions

What motivated you to pursue a career in research, what are the biggest challenges you face when conducting research, what have been the most exciting or rewarding moments during your career in research, what makes your research process unique, what is the most important advice you would give to other researchers, what do you think sets your research apart from other studies in your field, what are the most significant findings from your research to date, how has your research evolved over time, what impact do you hope your research will have on your field of study, what are the most pressing issues facing researchers in your field today, how does your research address these issues, what are the long-term goals of your research project, what challenges do you anticipate facing as you work towards these goals, how has your research changed the way you think about your field of study, what new questions has your research raised for you, how has your research affected the way you teach about your subject matter, what advice would you give to students who are interested in pursuing a career in research, what are the most important skills for a successful researcher, how has your research influenced your own personal development, what advice would you give to early-career researchers who are just starting out in their field.

There are many possible motivations for pursuing a career in research, and each individual researcher may have their own specific reasons. However, in general, researchers are motivated by a desire to contribute new knowledge to their field of study, to solve problems, and to advance their careers.

It is important for interviewers to ask this question in order to gain insight into a candidate's motivations and interests. This can help them to determine whether the candidate is likely to be a good fit for the position and the research team. Additionally, this question can help to identify any areas of potential conflict or misunderstanding between the candidate and the interviewer.

Example: “ I have always been interested in the scientific process and discovering new things. I find the research process to be both challenging and rewarding, and I enjoy working on projects that contribute to our understanding of the world around us. I also appreciate the opportunity to work with a team of people who share my passion for discovery. ”

The interviewer is trying to gauge the research officer's level of experience and expertise. It is important to know the challenges that the research officer faces when conducting research in order to determine if they are qualified for the position.

Example: “ There are many challenges that can be faced when conducting research. Some of the main challenges include: 1. Time constraints - often there is not enough time to collect all the data needed or to fully explore a topic. 2. Access to data - sometimes it can be difficult to get hold of the data needed for a project, especially if it is sensitive or confidential information. 3. Funding - securing enough funding for a project can be a challenge, especially in current economic climates. 4. Resources - another challenge can be finding enough resources (e.g. staff, equipment) to conduct the research effectively. 5. Ethical considerations - there are often ethical considerations to take into account when conducting research, such as protecting participants' confidentiality or ensuring that they give informed consent. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. They might be trying to get a sense of what motivates the research officer and what they find most rewarding about their job. This can help the interviewer understand if the research officer is likely to be satisfied in their position and if they are likely to stay with the company for a long period of time. Additionally, the interviewer might be trying to get a sense of the research officer's areas of expertise and what they are most passionate about. This information can be used to determine if the research officer is a good fit for the company and if they would be able to contribute to the company's success.

Example: “ There have been many exciting and rewarding moments during my career in research. One of the most exciting was when I was able to help develop a new research method that was later published in a prestigious journal. It was very gratifying to see my work being used by other researchers and to know that it was making a contribution to the field. Another rewarding moment was when I was able to secure funding for a new research project that I was passionate about. It was great to see my work come to fruition and to know that it was making a difference. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. First, they may be interested in knowing how the research officer goes about their work in order to gauge the quality of their work. Second, they may be trying to get a sense of the research officer's creative process and how they come up with new ideas. Finally, the interviewer may be interested in how the research officer's process can be applied to other areas of research. Ultimately, it is important for the interviewer to understand the research officer's process so that they can better assess the quality of their work and see how they might be able to contribute to the organization.

Example: “ My research process is unique because I take a multidisciplinary approach to my work. I integrate insights from psychology, sociology, and anthropology to understand the complexities of human behavior. This allows me to develop creative solutions to research problems that other researchers might miss. Additionally, I am always looking for new and innovative ways to collect data. I believe that the best research is done when it is conducted in a way that is ethical, rigorous, and respectful of participants. ”

The interviewer is asking for the research officer's opinion on what other researchers should do in order to be successful. This question allows the interviewer to gauge the research officer's experience and expertise in the field. Furthermore, the answer to this question can provide insight into the research officer's work ethic and values.

Example: “ There are many important pieces of advice that researchers should follow in order to be successful. However, if I had to narrow it down to one single piece of advice, it would be to always remain curious and to never stop learning. As a researcher, it is important to always be inquisitive and to constantly seek out new knowledge. This means that you should never stop learning, even after you have obtained your research degree. There are always new discoveries to be made and new theories to be explored. By remaining curious, you will ensure that your research is always at the forefront of your field. ”

There are many reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. They may be trying to gauge the uniqueness of the research, or they may be trying to determine whether the research is truly innovative. Additionally, the interviewer may be trying to determine whether the research has the potential to make a significant impact in the field. Ultimately, it is important to set your research apart from other studies in your field in order to demonstrate its value.

Example: “ There are several factors that could contribute to setting my research apart from others in my field. First, the focus of my research is on a specific population that is often underrepresented in research (e.g., low-income individuals, minorities, etc.). Second, I use innovative methods to collect data that other researchers in my field may not be using. For example, I might use mixed methods or utilize novel data sources. Third, I am constantly thinking about ways to improve my research design and methods so that I can produce the most rigorous and accurate results possible. Finally, I am always looking for new and unique ways to communicate my findings so that they can have the greatest impact on policy and practice. ”

The interviewer is asking for a summary of the research officer's findings to date in order to get a sense of the scope and progress of the research project. It is important for the interviewer to understand the significance of the findings in order to assess the potential impact of the research.

Example: “ The most significant findings from my research to date include: 1. The development of a new method for measuring the effects of environmental stressors on plant growth and development. 2. The discovery of a previously unknown plant species that is highly resistant to environmental stressors. 3. The identification of a new type of plant hormone that plays a key role in stress tolerance. ”

The interviewer is trying to gauge how the research officer has progressed in their field and how their research has changed over time. This is important because it shows how the research officer is able to adapt to new information and new situations. It also shows how they are able to keep up with the latest research in their field.

Example: “ My research has evolved over time in terms of both the topics I investigate and the methods I use. Early on in my career, I focused primarily on issues related to economic development and poverty alleviation. However, over time my interests have shifted to include a broader range of topics such as social inequality, environmental sustainability, and global health. In terms of methods, I have increasingly relied on quantitative techniques such as econometric analysis and surveys. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. First, they want to know if the research officer is aware of the potential implications of their work. Second, they want to know if the research officer is motivated by a desire to make a positive impact on their field of study. Finally, this question allows the interviewer to gauge the research officer's level of commitment to their work and its potential impact.

Example: “ I hope that my research will have a positive impact on my field of study by providing new and innovative insights that can help to improve the way we understand and approach the challenges facing our field. I also hope that my research will help to raise awareness of the importance of this issue and encourage more people to get involved in finding solutions. ”

The interviewer is trying to gauge the research officer's knowledge of the field and the issues facing researchers today. This is important because it shows whether the research officer is up-to-date on the latest research and trends in the field, and whether they are able to identify and articulate the most pressing issues facing researchers today. By understanding the most pressing issues facing researchers in the field, the research officer can help shape the direction of future research and make sure that the resources of the organization are focused on addressing these issues.

Example: “ There are a number of pressing issues facing researchers in my field today. One of the most pressing issues is the need for more funding. Many research projects are underfunded and this can lead to a number of problems, including delays in research, lack of access to resources, and difficulty in recruiting participants. Another pressing issue is the need for more collaboration. Researchers often work in silos and this can lead to duplication of effort and wasted resources. There is also a need for more communication between researchers and the public. Many people are unaware of the work that researchers do and this can lead to a lack of understanding of the importance of research. ”

There are a few potential reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a research officer. First, the interviewer may want to understand how the research officer's work fits into the larger context of the organization's research goals. Second, the interviewer may be interested in how the research officer's work addresses specific issues that are relevant to the organization. Finally, the interviewer may want to get a sense of the research officer's priorities and how they align with the organization's priorities.

It is important for the interviewer to understand how the research officer's work fits into the larger context of the organization's research goals because it can help to inform decision-making about future research projects. Additionally, if the organization is facing specific challenges, it is important to know how the research officer's work can help to address those challenges. Finally, by understanding the research officer's priorities, the interviewer can get a sense of how they might approach future projects.

Example: “ My research focuses on finding new and innovative ways to address these issues. I believe that by finding new and innovative solutions to these problems, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those affected by them. I am constantly looking for new and better ways to solve these problems, and I believe that my research will help to improve the lives of those affected by them. ”

The interviewer is trying to determine if the research officer is committed to the project and if they have a clear vision for the project. It is important to know the long-term goals of a research project because it can help the interviewer understand how the research officer plans to contribute to the project and what they hope to achieve.

Example: “ The long-term goals of our research project are to develop a better understanding of the causes and consequences of climate change, and to find ways to mitigate its impact. We hope to contribute to the development of policies and practices that will help reduce the negative impacts of climate change, and ultimately help protect our planet and its inhabitants. ”

The interviewer is trying to gauge whether the research officer has thought through the potential obstacles to achieving their goals. This is important because it shows whether the research officer is likely to be able to overcome these obstacles and achieve their goals.

Example: “ There are a few challenges that I anticipate facing as I work towards these goals. First, it may be difficult to accurately assess the impact of my work, since I will be working on a variety of projects simultaneously. Additionally, I may face resistance from some stakeholders who are not supportive of the goals I am trying to achieve. Finally, it is always a challenge to maintain focus and motivation when working on long-term goals, so I will need to make sure I stay on track and don't get sidetracked by other projects or tasks. ”

The interviewer is trying to gauge how the research officer's work has affected their thinking about the field of study. This is important because it allows the interviewer to understand how the research officer's work has contributed to their knowledge and understanding of the field. Additionally, it provides insight into how the research officer approaches their work and how they think about the topics they are researching.

Example: “ My research has definitely changed the way I think about my field of study. In particular, it has made me much more critical of the prevailing paradigms and theories within my field, and has led me to question many of the assumptions that are commonly made. Additionally, my research has also given me a much broader perspective on my field, and has allowed me to see the interconnectedness of different areas within it. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a research officer. First, it allows the interviewer to gauge how curious and innovative the research officer is. Second, it allows the interviewer to see how the research officer reflects on their work and what they have learned. Lastly, it allows the interviewer to understand what direction the research officer might take their work in next. All of these reasons are important because they show that the research officer is constantly learning and growing in their field, which is essential for any successful researcher.

Example: “ My research has raised a number of new questions for me, including: -How can we effectively communicate scientific research to the public? -What are the most effective ways to engage people in scientific research? -How can we make sure that scientific research is accessible to everyone? -How can we make sure that scientific research is used to inform public policy? ”

The interviewer is trying to gauge the research officer's understanding of the subject matter and how that understanding has informed their teaching. It is important for the research officer to be able to articulate how their research has affected their teaching in order to demonstrate that they are keeping up with the latest scholarship in their field and are able to apply it to their teaching.

Example: “ My research has affected the way I teach about my subject matter in several ways. First, it has helped me to develop a more critical approach to the material I am teaching. Second, it has allowed me to better understand the complexities of the subject matter and to develop more sophisticated ways of teaching it. Third, it has given me a greater appreciation for the importance of research in education and its potential to improve teaching and learning. ”

The interviewer is likely interested in the Research Officer's thoughts on what students should do if they want to pursue a research career. This question allows the interviewer to gauge the Research Officer's level of experience and knowledge about research careers. Additionally, the interviewer may be interested in the advice the Research Officer would give to students to help them be successful in their research career pursuits.

Example: “ There are a few pieces of advice that I would give to students who are interested in pursuing a career in research. First, it is important to be passionate about the topic that you are researching. This will help you to stay motivated and focused when things get tough. Second, always be willing to learn new things and ask questions. Research is an ever-changing field, so it is important to keep up with the latest developments. Finally, don’t be afraid to take risks. Pursuing a career in research can be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. ”

There are many important skills for a successful researcher, but some of the most important skills are: critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, communication, and time management. These skills are important because they allow researchers to effectively solve problems, communicate their findings, and manage their time.

Example: “ There are a number of important skills for a successful researcher, including: -The ability to identify and define problems -The ability to collect and analyse data -The ability to draw valid conclusions -The ability to communicate effectively -The ability to work independently -The ability to work collaboratively ”

There are many reasons an interviewer might ask this question to a research officer. It could be to gauge the research officer's commitment to their work, or to see how they have grown and changed as a result of their research. Additionally, the interviewer may be interested in the research officer's personal development goals and how the research has helped them to achieve those goals.

It is important for interviewers to ask this question because it helps them to understand the research officer's motivations for doing their work. Additionally, it can help the interviewer to identify any areas where the research officer may need further development.

Example: “ My research has influenced my personal development in a number of ways. First and foremost, it has helped me to develop a better understanding of the world around me and the people in it. I have also gained a greater appreciation for the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, my research has helped me to develop greater self-awareness and to understand the impact that my work can have on others. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a research officer. First, the interviewer may be interested in the research officer's thoughts on how early-career researchers can be successful in their field. Second, the interviewer may be interested in the research officer's thoughts on what advice early-career researchers should be given in order to be successful. Finally, the interviewer may be interested in the research officer's thoughts on what advice early-career researchers should be given in order to avoid making common mistakes.

The question is important because it allows the interviewer to get a sense of the research officer's views on how early-career researchers can be successful. It also allows the interviewer to get a sense of the research officer's views on what advice early-career researchers should be given in order to be successful.

Example: “ There are a few pieces of advice that I would give to early-career researchers who are just starting out in their field. First, it is important to be passionate about your research topic and to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. Second, it is essential to be well-organized and to have a good work ethic. Third, it is important to build a strong network of colleagues and mentors who can provide support and advice. Finally, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest research in your field and to be open to new ideas. ”

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