Blog 9

The Exchange and Reflection of the artifact interview

After reading Chase's account of our interview I thought that he really understood who I was and what I like. I enjoyed how he commented on my love for stilettos because many people would say those type of shoes are not comfortable, however, someone who is obsessed with being comfortable loves them and loves the comfort they give me. If I were Chase I probably would not have chosen my sweater because it was honestly nothing that means a great deal to me, but I wanted him to pick something that he noticed immediately and was interested to learn more about. I probably would have stuck with my pearl earrings because they have more of a story behind them. He actually mentioned them, but decided on the sweater and I wanted him to ask me about whatever he was curious about.
I learned from this classroom assignment that I really need to study the person I'm planning on interviewing before the fact so I have better open-ended questions to ask. I need to know exactly what I want from the person and how I am going to get it. I do believe that I have the ability to think on my toes and think of questions, off the top of my head, to keep the informant talking. I found that I did assume some things about the artifact that were dead on and that were completely off the wall, but I think that is good because it keeps me open-minded. I also think I have the ability to make a person feel comfortable which is always a good aspect of an interview so you can gain their trust and in the end they will open up to you more.