The remote self-confrontation interview method

Abstract #

For researchers interested in studying users’ perceptions and immediate reactions to digital media content—even from a distance—this paper introduces the remote self-confrontation interview method. This adapted version of the self-confrontation interview method uses videoconferencing software and combines four interrelated steps: First, participants are observed scrolling through/using a stimulus, which allows the assessment of attention, emotional reactions, and the intensity of participants’ engagement. Second, self-confrontation interviews are conducted, discussing and re-evaluating participants’ observed behavior. Third, further research aims are addressed in semi-structured interviews, and fourth, in problem-focused tasks. Weighting up advantages and challenges for participants and researchers, we discuss the method as an effective and broadly applicable approach to examine digital media users’ perceptions and evaluations.

Download

Cite