Embedding researcher’s reflexive accounts within the analysis of a semi- structured qualitative interview

Abstract

This manuscript aims to embed a researcher’s reflexive account within a qualitative interview in an iterative process whereby a self-analytic reflexive exercise was conducted prior to, during the interview, and within the analysis of the interview. This interview was conducted between an overseas PhD student as an interviewer and a native PhD student as interviewee. The researcher’s (interviewer) demonstration of learning about herself is of particular importance in this piece of work. Having the chance to conduct this interview between an overseas PhD student and a native student provided insights about the stereotypes implanted within the researcher which meant that she assumed that a PhD is more stressful for overseas than for home students.