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Recording Oral History Interviews The best interviews come from relaxed people. The more you can make it just a conversation; the more comfortable everyone is; the more unobtrusive the tape recorder; the more information people will share. The first step is to check your equipment. Make sure the recorder works. Take an extra tape. Check the batteries. There is nothing worse than finishing a half-hour interview and realizing the tape didn’t move! Unless it’s finishing after two hours and realizing the tape didn’t move! Have a plan, but be ready to throw the plan out. Prepare a list of questions before sitting down. Ask about specific people, places, and events. Try not to ask “yes or no” type questions. Send the list a day or two ahead so your relative has a chance to gather information. Double check you equipment. Is the tape rolling? Keep your ears open for the stray piece of information that could open up new clues. Be ready to expand on this new tidbit. Ask for clarification often. Be sensitive to what types of questions to ask, what topics are not discussed. Check body language. Have they pulled away from you? Folded their arms? Stopped looking at you? Remember, keep the atmosphere pleasant. Assure your relative you will turn off the tape recorder at any time. Triple check the recorder. Are the batteries working? Is it plugged in? On the tape, record the date, subject, and persons present at the interview. Be sure to write the information on the tape case as well. Write down any names mentioned and ask if they are spelled correctly. Pictures are excellent memory helps. Your relative may bring albums out for viewing. If you are allowed to take the pictures for copying, treat them as the precious treasures they are. Take acid-free cover sheets for transporting them. Return them as quickly as possible. These tips work whether you are using audio or video tape. Keep the interview to an hour maximum. Thank the interviewee. Ask if they would like a copy of the tape for themselves. Make it completely clear how you will use the information they have shared. Leave the way open for another interview in the future. |
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